Tragedy in Paradise: Shark Attack Claims Two Tourists in Philippines

Two tourists from Russia met a tragic end in the Philippines, reportedly **killed by sharks** at a popular diving spot near Verde Island. Ilia Peregudin, 29, and Maksim Melekhov, 39, were caught in a strong undercurrent, separating them from their group and carrying them towards a pack of sharks. Talk about a nightmare scenario. According to Philippine Coast Guard Captain Airland Lapitan, the current was so strong that two divers, accompanied by a master diver, managed to return to the boat, but Peregudin and Melekhov didn't resurface. The recovery of one of the divers was particularly harrowing, with sharks circling the body. Authorities believe the individual was attacked, noting the absence of their right hand. Footage from the dive captured schools of fish just moments before the incident. Peregudin was found unconscious and pronounced dead after being rushed to a hospital in Batangas. Local resident Diego Reyes, who had dived with the Russian tourists, described the conditions as "overwhelming and traumatizing," citing strong currents and waves. "It was really challenging to get back with the group once you got separated," Reyes said, expressing his hope that authorities would uncover the truth behind the tragedy. An investigation into the incident is currently underway. What a terrible thing to happen in such a beautiful place.