28-2-2025 (MANILA) In a devastating incident off the coast of Batangas City, two Russian holidaymakers lost their lives whilst exploring the underwater realm near Verde Island on Thursday.

The tranquil diving expedition took a horrific turn shortly after 1 o’clock in the afternoon when unpredictable ocean currents suddenly shifted in the vicinity of Pulong Bato, separating the group of four Russian nationals who had ventured beneath the waves.

According to Captain Airland Lapitan, who commands the Batangas Coast Guard Station, two members of the party alongside a master diver managed to surface safely. Tragically, their companions became isolated in the tumultuous waters.

“The sea’s temperament changed without warning,” explained Captain Lapitan. “The diving party was torn asunder by forceful currents, with only half the group emerging from the depths.”

The recovery efforts were significantly hampered by an alarming presence of sharks circling the area. After hours of searching, at approximately half past five in the evening, the Coast Guard’s search and rescue team made a grim discovery – the body of the second diver, with his right hand severed, suggesting a possible shark attack.

“We observed numerous sharks surrounding the victim, lending credence to the theory that an attack had occurred,” Captain Lapitan noted.

The first victim had been rushed to St. Patrick Hospital in Batangas City earlier, but medical staff were unable to revive him upon arrival. The remains of the second diver were transported to Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro, whilst the surviving members of the expedition have since returned to their accommodation.