By late last night 410 people had been rescued from the mud which has engulfed the village of Guinsaugon in the Philippines. Survivors in a critical condition have been airlifted to hospitals in the area, according to Caritas Australia staff in the Philippines, who are in close communication with their partners from Guinsaugon. 

Last night rescuers had determined the location of the school that was buried along with school children from the village. The roof was identified using magnetic equipment but it is under approximately 50 metres of mud. Equipment available was only able to dig up to 15 metres so rescuers are now waiting for Taiwanese teams due to arrive, who have more advanced equipment. 

Rescue is still on going with assistance from different groups such as the US army working with the Philippines army, Pakistani and now Taiwanese rescue teams. 

The local community has received strong support both from international and local groups. 

Currently there are 576 families in three evacuation centres - two parish buildings and one school building. Parish volunteers are developing profiles of families affected so that they can provide appropriate counseling. 

Eight villages will be evacuated, due to fears of another landslide. 

Caritas Philippines has launched a national appeal and is receiving a reasonable response from within the country but more assistance is needed. 

Caritas Philippines is also unloading relief goods that it has accessed from the Philippines government. However, currently more food, sleeping equipment, milk for children and the elderly is still needed. 

To make a donation to the Philippines Landslide relief effort please ring 1800 024 413 or make a donation on-line.