Early reports suggest no tsunami was triggered by the magnitude 6.9 quake.

A strong earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.9 has struck the Philippines, rattling parts of the Eastern Visayas region at around 10pm local time on Tuesday night, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Some reports have put the magnitude at 6.7.

The quake had a shallow epicentre, recorded at around 11 km, but authorities confirmed there was no tsunami threat. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center added that while the risk of large waves was ruled out, minor sea-level disturbances could occur.

Local officials said there were no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage, though inspections are underway across Cebu and neighbouring provinces. In Cebu City, a beauty pageant was abruptly halted as the venue shook, with dramatic footage showing the startled contestants and audience.

Authorities have cautioned that aftershocks are expected in the days ahead, urging residents to remain alert. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) specifically warned communities in Leyte, Cebu, and Biliran to avoid beaches and coastal areas as a precaution.

The Philippines sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire” – a vast zone of volcanic and seismic activity. While most tremors that strike the country are too weak to be felt, powerful and destructive quakes occur without warning, with no reliable way of predicting when or where they will hit.

This is a developing story; updates will follow.