A MASSIVE landslide has buried dozens of homes in two villages near a central Philippine mountain, killing at least four people.

Rescuers are scrambling to find survivors after some sent text messages pleading for help, officials said.

The landslide buried around

30 rural houses after daybreak in Cebu province.

Seven injured villagers were rescued from the huge mound of earth and debris.

The landslide struck while several northern Philippine provinces were still dealing with deaths and widespread damage wrought by Typhoon Mangkhut, which pummelled the agricultural region over the weekend and left more than 80 dead and 71 missing.

A massive search is still under way for dozens of people trapped and rescuers are treading carefully in small groups on the unstable ground to avoid further casualties.

Councillor Carmelino Cruz said: “We’re running out of time. The ground in the area is still vibrating. We’re striking a balance between intensifying our rescue efforts and ensuring the safety of our rescuers.”

It is not clear what set off the landslide, but some residents blamed nearby limestone quarries.