What were the circumstances leading to the separation of the Russian divers from their group?

The divers were separated due to strong underwater currents while scuba diving near Verde Island in Batangas, Philippines.

What injuries did the second Russian diver sustain, and what is believed to have caused them?

The second diver, Maksim Melekhov, was found unconscious and later declared dead upon arrival at the hospital. The first diver, Ilya Peregudin, sustained severe injuries consistent with a shark attack, including the loss of his right arm.

How common are shark attacks in the Philippines, and what safety measures are being considered following this incident?

Shark attacks in the Philippines are extremely rare, with none recorded in at least a year prior to this incident. Following the tragedy, local authorities are considering enhanced safety measures, such as mandatory local dive guides and improved monitoring of currents.

What is the status of the investigation into the incident, and what actions are being taken by local authorities?

The investigation is ongoing to determine the full circumstances of the tragedy. Local authorities are reviewing safety protocols and urging divers to exercise heightened vigilance, especially in areas with strong currents.

3 sources·World

Tragic Shark Attacks in the Philippines Claim Lives of Two Russian Divers

Two Russian tourists died in separate incidents during a diving excursion in the Philippines due to harsh currents and shark attacks.

33%

67%

The distribution of story sources: left-leaning (blue), center (light gray), and right-leaning (red).

Mostly Reliable

The underlying sources are generally reliable but sometimes include opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.

Leans Right

The underlying sources slightly lean right.

An investigation is underway and the coast guard will meet provincial officials to discuss ways to prevent such deadly incidents at Verde Island and other dive spots.
Russian Tourist Dies After Being Attacked by Sharks in Philippine Diving Spot, Another Drowns
Epoch Times·21d
Mixed Reliable
This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
·
Right
This outlet favors right-wing views.
Shark attacks in the waters around the Philippines are exceedingly rare, with none recorded in at least a year, according to a global database.
Russian divers found dead, one in the jaws of a shark, near popular Philippines resort
CBS News·21d
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.

Feb 28th, 2025, 12:36 PM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

In a tragic incident in the Philippines, two Russian divers lost their lives after being separated from their group due to strong currents while scuba diving off Verde Island. Ilya Peregudin, 29, was found dead with severe injuries believed to be caused by a shark, while Maksim Melekhov, 39, was found unconscious and later declared dead after being transported to a hospital. The remaining divers and their instructor managed to return safely. Philippine authorities are investigating the incident and are calling for increased safety measures for divers in the region, where shark attacks are exceedingly rare.

Perspectives

Compare opinions on this story from liberal (Left), conservative (Right) or center-leaning news organizations.

This story is either non-partisan or does not have the required sources to create partisan perspectives.

FAQs

A list of follow-up questions readers often ask about this story.