Nov 17, Kathmandu- The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said that a powerful earthquake of magnitude 6.7 occurred in the southern Philippines on Friday. Local authorities have warned of possible damage from the earthquake.

The USGS said in a statement that there was no danger of a tsunami after the earthquake hit Sarangani province on the main southern island of Mindanao at 8:14 a.m. GMT Friday.

There were no immediate reports of casualties, although the earthquake was felt across a wide area of the mountainous island. "It was the most powerful earthquake I've ever experienced," said 27-year-old Keshia Leran, who came to attend an event in Davao City, about 200 kilometers from the epicenter. I was afraid that there would be a stampede."

Earthquakes are a common occurrence in the Philippines, which is located next to the Pacific 'Ring of Fire'. The 'Ring of Fire' is a belt of intense seismic and volcanic activity that stretches from Japan to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Basin.