CAPOOCAN, LEYTE — A magnitude 4.4 tectonic earthquake rattled several towns across Leyte on Wednesday afternoon, September 17, 2026, with the strongest shaking reported in Capoocan and the municipality of Leyte. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS-DOST) has assessed that no damage and no aftershocks are expected from the event.
What Happened and Where
The earthquake occurred at 3:59:13 PM Philippine Standard Time (PHT) on September 17, 2026. PHIVOLCS-DOST located its epicenter approximately 8 kilometers west-northwest of Capoocan, Leyte, at coordinates 11.29°N, 124.57°E. The quake originated at a shallow depth of 8 kilometers and was classified as tectonic in origin.
The bulletin was issued by PHIVOLCS-DOST at 4:29 PM PHT on the same day and is designated Earthquake Information No. 2.
Where the Shaking Was Felt
PHIVOLCS-DOST reported felt intensities across multiple towns and cities in Leyte, using the PHIVOLCS Earthquake Intensity Scale (PEIS):
Intensity IV — the strongest reported level — was experienced in Capoocan and the municipality of Leyte. At this level, shaking is described as strong: felt by many people indoors, hanging objects swing considerably, and some sleeping persons may be awakened.
Intensity III — described as weak to moderately felt shaking — was reported in Villaba, Carigara, Tabango, and Kananga, all in Leyte. At Intensity III, vibrations are noticeable indoors, similar to the feeling of a light truck passing by.
Intensity II — described as very slight shaking — was reported in Palompon, the City of Ormoc, Matag-ob, Alangalang, and San Isidro, also in Leyte. At this level, only a few people at rest or in upper floors of buildings may notice the shaking.
Instrumental Readings
In addition to felt reports, PHIVOLCS-DOST also recorded instrumental intensities — shaking levels detected by seismic instruments rather than reported by residents. Instruments registered Intensity III in Kananga and Villaba, Leyte; Intensity II in Alangalang and the City of Ormoc, Leyte; and Intensity I in San Jorge and Villareal, Samar.
No Damage or Aftershocks Expected
PHIVOLCS-DOST has assessed that this earthquake is not expected to cause damage, and no aftershocks are anticipated. The agency has designated this bulletin as its final release on the event unless additional information warrants a follow-up.
Official Source and Monitoring
This report is based entirely on Earthquake Information No. 2 issued by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS-DOST) at 4:29 PM PHT on September 17, 2026. An epicentral map is available through the official PHIVOLCS bulletin.
Monitor official PHIVOLCS updates at phivolcs.dost.gov.ph