LANDSLIDE VICTIMS BEG FOR RESCUE IN TEXTS

NAGA, PHILIPPINES A massive landslide buried dozens of homes near a central Philippine mountain Thursday, killing at least 21 and sending rescuers scrambling to find survivors after some sent text messages pleading for help.

The slide surged down on about 30 houses in two rural villages after daybreak in Naga city in Cebu province, city police chief Roderick Gonzales said. Some victims managed to send messages after the landslide hit, Gonzales said, adding that elderly women and a child were among the dead.

Naga city Mayor Kristine Vanessa Chiong said at least 64 people remained missing.

The landslide hit while several provinces are still dealing with deaths and widespread damage wrought by Typhoon Mangkhut.