Manila, Oct. 1 -- People in areas affected by the magnitude 6.9 offshore Cebu earthquake are advised to check the structural integrity of their houses and buildings as aftershocks could last for a few days or even several weeks.

"You shouldn't immediately return to the building if there's visible damage after the main shock. Consult civil engineers, structural engineers in your municipal or city engineering office and seek advice regarding the integrity of the buildings," Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) Director Teresito Bacolcol said during the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon briefing on Wednesday.

He gave the same advice to residents in a separate TV interview.

As of 10 a.m., Phivolcs has logged 848 aftershocks ...