Earthquake of 6.3 magnitude strikes Manila

A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Philippines capital Manila on Monday. The quake prompted thousands of residents and office workers to flee to safety. There were no immediate reports of possible casualties or damage.

Manila: A strong earthquake shook the area around the Philippines capital Manila on Monday, prompting thousands of residents and office workers to flee to safety.

The US Geological Survey said the magnitude 6.3 quake struck near the town of Gutad on Luzon island, northwest of the capital.

There were no immediate reports of injuries.

Experts said the quake, which was caused by movement of a local fault, was not strong enough to trigger a tsunami or cause widespread damage.

But some officials said a church had been damaged, and a highway had been blocked by boulders that had rolled down a mountain.