This is the astonishing moment thousands of bats emerged during an earthquake in the Philippines.

The colony of flying mammals took flight after a 5.7 magnitude quake struck Sarangani at 5:42 am local time today.

Footage shows the eerie scene as a cloud of the nocturnal creatures soared over homes, prompting shocked residents to record the mass migration.

Music and announcements from a political rally were playing at the same time the bats flew overhead.

A local, Russel Jade Galla, said: 'We were in town for the election campaigns. At around 5:40 am, the earthquake struck, and moments later, the flock of huge bats emerged. It was the first time I've seen anything like it.'

State seismological agency PHIVOLCS said the tremor struck at a depth of one kilometre near Maitum town.

Damage and aftershocks were expected, though local authorities said initial reports indicated no substantial damage.

Local fire official Gilbert Rolifor said: 'It was strong but didn't last long. We have checked, but it was negative or damage or casualties.'

The Philippines is an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands inside the Pacific 'Ring of Fire' where the majority of Earth's volcano eruptions and earthquakes happen.