A magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck offshore near the northern Philippine province of Ilocos Norte on Tuesday morning, shaking several areas across the northern Luzon region, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

The tremor occurred at 10:38 a.m. local time, with its epicenter located 29 kilometers northwest of Pasuquin town, Ilocos Norte. Phivolcs said the quake originated at a depth of 27 kilometers and was of tectonic origin.

While the agency warned of possible aftershocks, it noted that the earthquake is not expected to cause significant structural damage.

The tremor was felt across nearby provinces, including Cagayan, Ilocos Sur, Isabela, and Abra, prompting brief alarm among residents, though no immediate reports of injuries or damage were recorded as of this report.

The Philippines, situated on the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire, regularly experiences earthquakes due to the movement of tectonic plates beneath the region.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols in case of aftershocks. (ILKHA)