In brief: Divers’ bodies found in Philippines

MANILA, Philippines – Rescuers in the Philippines have recovered the bodies of an American and a Hong Kong resident who went missing while exploring a World War II shipwreck west of Manila.

Romeo Renojo, maritime security chief at the Subic Bay Freeport, said the body of American dive master Steven Brittian was recovered this morning inside the engine room of the sunken USS New York.

Hong Kong tourist Tin Shun Chuen’s body was recovered late Monday.

The two divers were last seen around sundown Sunday as they were about to ascend from the shipwreck.

Mandela celebrates 93rd birthday

JOHANNESBURG – Former President Nelson Mandela spent his 93rd birthday with friends and relatives in his rural hometown Monday, as South Africans paid tribute to the anti-apartheid icon through song and community service projects.

Millions of South African schoolchildren began their day by singing a special version of “Happy Birthday” to Mandela, leading a worldwide chorus of birthday wishes.

U.S. President Barack Obama called Mandela “a beacon for the global community, and for all who work for democracy, justice and reconciliation.”

In 2009, the United Nations established Nelson Mandela International Day to honor the African leader on his birthday through acts of community service.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged people around the world “to make a difference” by tutoring a child, feeding the hungry or volunteering at a hospital or community center.