The Philippine Instituteof Seismology and Volcanology (Phivolcs) said the quake, which struck at 12.22pm (local time), hit at a depth of 15 m, about 6 km southeast of Magsaysaytown.
Phivolcs said thequake, which was tectonic in origin, will trigger aftershocks and cause damage.
The tremor was alsofelt in Kadapawan city, Koronadal city in South Cotabato and other areas in theMindanao region.
The Philippines liesalong the "Pacific Ring of Fire" which is surrounded by numerousactive faults and trenches on both sides of the archipelago. The country hasfrequent seismic activities and is prone to natural disasters./.