Manila, March 28 -- A strong earthquake rocked Myanmar and Thailand on Friday, causing widespread damage in the two Southeast Asian states.

The 7.7-magnitude tremor hit Sagaing in central Myanmar in the afternoon, the United States Geological Survey said, classifying the disaster under "red alert" status, indicating that it could result in high casualties and extensive damage requiring a national or international response.

Based on the latest update by the Philippine Embassies in Yangon and Bangkok, no Filipino was reported hurt from the tremor so far.

"The Embassy is closely monitoring developments and reports that there are currently no reports of damage or casualties from the approximately 811 registered Filipino nationals residing ...