Batangas City, Philippines: The Coast Guard Station Batangas recovered the bodies of two Russian nationals who died during a diving session near Verde Island on Thursday, with one victim missing a right hand, raising suspicions of a shark attack.
According to authorities, members of the Coast Guard responded swiftly after the incident was reported. One of the divers was rushed to St. Patrick Hospital in Batangas City but was pronounced dead on arrival. Later that day, the second body was retrieved from the waters near Verde Island. Notably, the second victim’s right hand was missing, leading officials to speculate that a shark attack may have occurred during the dive.
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The two Russian tourists, whose identities have not been disclosed, were part of a diving activity in the popular Verde Island area, known for its rich marine biodiversity. While initial reports suggest one death may be linked to a shark encounter, the other is believed to have resulted from drowning. The exact circumstances surrounding the incidents remain under investigation by local authorities.
This tragic event marks a rare occurrence in Philippine waters, where shark attacks are uncommon despite the presence of various shark species. The Coast Guard and local officials have yet to release further details as they continue to probe the cause of the deaths. The recovery of the bodies has sent shockwaves through the diving community in Batangas, a region celebrated for its vibrant underwater attractions.
Key Points:
Incident Overview: Two Russian nationals died during a diving session near Verde Island, Batangas City, on Thursday.
Recovery Efforts: Coast Guard Station Batangas retrieved both bodies; one was found later in the day missing a right hand.
Medical Outcome: One diver was rushed to St. Patrick Hospital but declared dead on arrival; the other’s death is suspected to involve a shark attack due to the missing hand.
Suspected Causes: Authorities believe one death may be linked to a shark attack, while the other is attributed to drowning.
Location: Verde Island, a popular diving spot known for its marine biodiversity, was the site of the incidents.
Investigation: Local authorities are probing the exact circumstances, with limited details released so far.
