Minor damage reported after 5.1 quake in Sipalay

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The Sipalay City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office in Negros Occidental reported minor structural damage following a magnitude 5.1 earthquake that struck the city on Tuesday.

According to the DRRMO, an initial Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis was conducted to determine the extent of the damage, assess the safety of affected structures—particularly schools—and identify urgent intervention measures.

Five buildings at Gil Montilla National High School in Barangay Gil Montilla showed cracks on slabs and construction defects such as poor concrete cover.

Use of these facilities has been suspended until further notice.

Tension cracks were also observed in columns at Agripino Alvarez Elementary School, raising concerns about their structural integrity.

Other affected sites include several government facilities, where hairline cracks and partial floor tile damage were reported.

These include market stalls in Barangay Nabulao, the People’s Hall and Health Center in Barangay Mambarato, and the Sangguniang Kabataan building in Barangay Maricalum.

The quake was felt at Intensity III, characterized by the slight swinging of hanging objects and noticeable indoor shaking, especially on higher floors, according to the DRRMO.

Dizziness and nausea were also reported during the tremor.

Assessment is ongoing in all affected facilities and areas to determine the required repairs or reinforcements.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reported three earthquakes on Tuesday morning, with magnitudes of 3.5 at 5:58 a.m., 4.9, and 5.1 at 8:04 a.m.

No casualties or major damage were reported.