Metro Manila, Philippines – Two Russian nationals were killed after being caught in strong currents while scuba diving in Batangas, the Philippine Coast Guard said.
In an interview with NewsWatch Plus, Airland Lapitan, PCG Batangas station commander said, four Russians went scuba diving in Verde Island in Batangas on Thursday, Feb. 27.
The coast guard said the foreigners were staying at a hotel in nearby town, Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro.
Lapitan said the first casualty was pronounced dead on arrival after being brought to the hospital in Batangas by rescuers.
Meanwhile, the other victim was found dead with his arms severed after an alleged shark attack.
Authorities said there were multiple sharks seen in the area where the victim was recovered.
“Iyong dalawa together with their master diver, naka-surface sila and they managed to go on board doon sa boat nila,” said Lapitan.
[Translation: The two of them, together with their master diver, surfaced and managed to board their boat]
According to Lapitan, there was no gale warning when the incident happened. But PCG urged divers and dive operators to exercise caution in areas with strong currents and active marine life.
