A magnitude 7 earthquake jolted residents when it shook homes across the northern parts of the Philippines today.

Footage shows a rack of mugs shaking violently as the tremors were felt in Pasig City in the National Capital Region on July 27.

Homeowner Dion said: 'I was holding my cellphone when the earthquake happened. It was so strong that the coffee mugs and our heavy wooden chopping board shook from the force.'

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said the quake struck at 8:43 am local time three kilometres west-northwest of Tayum municipality in Abra province. It was recorded at a depth of 25 kilometres.

It was earlier pegged at a magnitude of 7.3, but was later downgraded to 7.0.

The earthquake was also felt in northern provinces and the capital region Metro Manila.

In a statement, Abra Representative Ching Bernos said the tremors had damaged homes and buildings in the province.

She said: 'I urge everyone to stay alert and to prioritize safety in light of the possibilities of aftershocks that might be felt after that strong earthquake. We are monitoring the situation on the ground and gathering information on the extent of the damage to the province.

'My office is also actively coordinating with proper authorities on what can be done to assist families and communities that were severely affected by this earthquake.'

The extent of the damage and the number of injuries or casualties is still being assessed by authorities.

PHIVOLCS has warned residents to be vigilant of aftershocks.