By CESAR JOLITO III

A Magnitude 4.8 earthquake struck Western Visayas early yesterday evening, sending light tremors across Bacolod City and several areas in Negros Occidental, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

The tremor was recorded at 6:13 p.m., with the cities of Bacolod, La Carlota and Sipalay reporting Intensity 2 shaking.

Phivolcs said the earthquake’s epicenter was located in Tigbauan, Iloilo, with a depth of about 10 kilometers. The quake was classified as tectonic in origin.

Stronger shaking was felt in nearby provinces, with Intensity 4 reported in Jordan, Guimaras and Iloilo City.

Intensity 3 was logged in parts of Antique, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Passi City.

Weaker tremors were also noted in areas of Aklan, Capiz and Antique, ranging from Intensity 2 to Intensity 1.

Authorities said there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage as of press time.

Phivolcs advised the public to remain alert for possible aftershocks and to follow standard earthquake safety measures, especially in areas that experienced stronger shaking./CJ, WDJ