Philippines: A magnitude-5.7 offshore earthquake occurs in the Leyte Gulf at around 18:16 May 3

A magnitude-5.7 earthquake occurred in the Leyte Gulf at around 18:16 May 3. The epicenter was about 28 km (17 miles) south-southwest of Balangiga, Eastern Samar Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 39 km (24 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt in coastal areas of southern Samar and eastern Leyte islands near the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout much of Eastern Visayas and parts of southern Bicol, central and eastern Central Visayas, and northern Caraga regions. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; some minor damage is possible in areas near the epicenter. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light-to-moderate aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.