Update: July 20 – 5.5 magnitude earthquake registered near Basco, Philippines

Published Jul 20, 2025

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, a 5.5 magnitude quake occurred close to Basco at midday on Sunday.

The tremor shook the area at 05:45 UTC (13:45 local time). It occurred at a depth of 40 km with the epicenter located roughly 98 km south-southwest of Basco.

Did you feel it?

If you experienced the earthquake, you can share your observations using the USGS Felt Report form.

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Impact and estimated losses

Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage. Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides and liquefaction that might have contributed to losses.

Structure information summary
Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are a mix of vulnerable and earthquake resistant construction. The predominant vulnerable building types are unknown/miscellaneous types and heavy wood frame construction.

Historical information
A magnitude 6.6 earthquake 115 km southwest of this event struck UK on August 17, 1983 (UTC), with estimated population exposures of 370,000 at intensity VII and 190,000 at intensity VIII, resulting in a reported 24 fatalities.

Quakes past week

Last week, three tremors of magnitude 2.5 or above have been recorded in the region. The strongest, a 5.3 magnitude quake, jolted in the same region one day ago.

Source: The U.S. Geological Survey