An earthquake measuring 6 on the Richter scale hit the Philippines Monday, but there was no report of any casualty or damage, the US Geological Service said.

The quake was recorded at 6.16 p.m. local time with the epicentre at 45 km southwest of Cotabato city in Mindanao region, and at a depth of 33 km, Xinhua reported citing a statement from the US organisation.

The Philippines sits on the Pacific 'Ring of Fire' where continental plates collide, causing frequent seismic activity.

The worst earthquake in the country occurred Aug 16, 1976, when an quake-triggered tsunami killed around 8,000 people in southern Philippines.