A magnitude 6.0 earthquake rocked waters near northern Philippines at 8:26 a.m. local time Wednesday, Philippine seismologists said.

Strong earthquake rocks off N. Philippines. ?

The epicenter of the undersea quake, which was of tectonic origin and struck from a depth of 16 kilometers, was traced 94 kilometers southwest of Palauig town, Zambales province, said the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, adding aftershocks are expected.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage from local authorities.

The United States Geological Survey, meanwhile, said the quake struck at 8:27 a.m. from a depth of 14.6 kilometers.

The Philippines sits in the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, an area where continental plates collide, producing frequent quakes and volcanic activities.