Two Russian Divers Die in Philippines, One in Shark Attack

Strong undercurrents separated the divers from their group at a popular scuba spot, leading to one drowning and another being attacked by sharks.

Russian tourists Ilya Perigudin, 29, and Maksim Melekhov, 39, were swept away by strong undercurrents while diving near Verde Island in the Philippines.
Melekhov was found unconscious at sea and later pronounced dead at a local hospital, with drowning suspected as the cause of death.
Perigudin was discovered being attacked by sharks, with his arms severed; his remains were recovered near the shoreline.
Two other Russian divers and their Filipino dive instructor managed to return safely to their boat after being separated by the current.
The Philippine Coast Guard has urged divers to follow strict safety protocols in areas with strong currents and active marine life.