A magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck the waters off Eastern Samar on March 17, 2026, at 6:55 PM, with no expected damage or aftershocks, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS-DOST).
Earthquake Details
The tectonic earthquake was located 73 kilometers north 75° east of Mercedes, Eastern Samar, at coordinates 11.27°N, 126.36°E. The seismic event occurred at a depth of 26 kilometers beneath the earth's surface.
PHIVOLCS classified the earthquake as having a surface wave magnitude (Ms) of 4.0, placing it in the light earthquake category on the magnitude scale.
No Community Impact Reported
The earthquake was recorded as instrumental only, meaning it was detected by seismographic monitoring equipment but was not strong enough to be felt by residents in nearby communities. No intensity readings were reported from populated areas.
PHIVOLCS stated in its official bulletin that no damage is expected from this seismic event, and no aftershocks are anticipated to follow.
Official Monitoring
The earthquake bulletin was issued by PHIVOLCS at 7:05 PM on March 17, 2026, approximately 10 minutes after the seismic event occurred. The agency indicated this will be the only bulletin released for this earthquake unless additional information becomes available.
The bulletin was prepared by PHIVOLCS staff at the agency's headquarters on C.P. Garcia Avenue in UP Diliman, Quezon City, as part of the Department of Science and Technology's continuous seismic monitoring efforts nationwide.
Citizens are advised to stay informed through official channels and monitor official PHIVOLCS updates at phivolcs.dost.gov.ph.