Manila, Oct. 10 -- The public is advised to take precautions against possible strong aftershocks from the magnitude 7.4 offshore earthquake that jolted Davao Oriental on Friday.

"So far, the highest aftershock magnitude we recorded is 5.8. We remind the public to do the duck, cover and hold during earthquakes," Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) Director Teresito Bacolcol said in an interview over PTV in the afternoon.

He also reminded the public to evacuate buildings immediately after a strong quake stops.

"Structurally compromised buildings should not be occupied," Bacolcol added.

Aftershocks, he said, could be as high as one magnitude less from the main shock. Thus, the strongest possible aftershock of th...