Death toll rises as storm hits southern Philippines

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ZAMBOANGA, Philippines – Philippine officials say more than 120 people have died from landslides and flash floods set off by Tropical Storm Tembin that blew across the country’s south at a peak time for travel and Christmas preparations.

Thousands of villagers have been moved to emergency shelters and thousands more were left stranded in airports and seaports after the coast guard prohibited ferries from venturing out in the rough seas and several flights were cancelled.

It’s believed more than 160 others are missing.

Mayor Bong Edding of Zamboanga del Norte province’s Sibuco town told The Associated Press by telephone Saturday that a search and rescue was underway for more than 30 people swept away by flash floods in the fishing village of Anungan. Five bodies have been recovered in the village.

Police and officials say more than 40 others perished mostly in the hard-hit provinces of Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur.

The storm is forecast to blow away from the southern Philippines on Sunday.

 

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