The magnitude 5.9 earthquake that struck Lubang, Occidental Mindoro on December 5, 2023 did not leave any major damage or cause casualty.

PHIVOLCS, however, recorded no less than 70 aftershocks.

Mayor Mike Orayani explained that Lubang is surrounded by earthquake faults, particularly between Lubang and Manila Bay, and the Manila Trench on the south side facing the West Philippine Sea.

"Kami po ay napapalibutan ng earthquake fault, 'yung between Lubang and Manila Bay, Zambales area na 'yan simula ng Batangas. Tapos 'yung south part namin 'yung West Philippine Sea side ay nandodoon 'yung Manila Trench," Orayani said.

Authorities noted some hairline cracks and minor damage on structures but Orayani assured the public that these were superficial and that no cancellation of classes or work was necessary.

The local government conducted immediate inspections to assess the situation.

The Manila Trench, which runs along the country's coastline from Batanes to Mindoro, was identified as the source of the seismic activity.

Director Teresito 'Toto' Bacolcol of PHIVOLCS emphasized that the Philippines is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it tectonically active.

"So lahat na 'to only proves that the Philippines is tectonically active. Again, because we're part of the Pacific Ring of Fire so there is nothing unusual about it," Bacolcol said.

He stressed further that the Philippines has six active trenches in its waters, and it is normal for them to produce earthquakes intermittently.

"Hindi siya unusual kasi we know that Manila Trench is active so, therefore, it will generate earthquakes from time to time," Bacolcol added.

While there is no technology to predict exactly when and where an earthquake will occur, PHIVOLCS encourages everyone to remain vigilant and prepared.