A MAGNITUDE 5.8 earthquake struck off Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte at 10:38 a.m., prompting students in Badoc to evacuate classrooms as a precaution. Phivolcs said the quake was felt across Northern Luzon, with Instrumental Intensity IV recorded in parts of Cagayan, Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. Photograph by Jasper Dawang for DAILY TRIBUNE
NATION

Magnitude 5.8 quake jolts Ilocos

Jasper Dawang

A magnitude 5.8 quake struck off the coast of Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte at 10:38 a.m. Tuesday, prompting students in Badoc to evacuate their classrooms as a precaution.

The quake, which originated 29 kilometers northwest of Pasuquin at a depth of 27 kilometers, was felt across several provinces in Northern Luzon.

According to Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) Earthquake Information No. 1, the tremor registered Instrumental Intensity IV in Claveria, Cagayan; San Nicolas and Solsona, Ilocos Norte; and Sinait and Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. Lighter intensities were also recorded in nearby areas, including Intensity III in Gonzaga, Cagayan; Intensity II in Bangued, Abra and Narvacan, Ilocos Sur; and Intensity I in Candon, Ilocos Sur and Ilagan, Isabela.

Mayor Shiella A. Galano of Paoay, Ilocos Norte has ordered the suspension of all classes, both in public and private schools across all levels, following the temblor. The suspension is aimed at ensuring the safety of students and school personnel while structural inspections are conducted in all educational facilities.

Mayor Virgilio Calajate has ordered the suspension of all classes at all levels — public and private — in the Municipality of Badoc. The suspension aims to allow time for thorough assessments of possible damage and ensure the safety of students and school personnel.

Work in all public offices was also canceled to prioritize safety assessments. City officials have instructed all authorized personnel to inspect building structures.

Meanwhile, Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos has ordered the suspension of classes at all levels in both public and private schools for the safety of students and personnel. It also allows time for authorities to inspect school facilities for possible damage. Residents are urged to remain alert and follow safety protocols amid possible aftershocks.