BATERBONIA (Rene Baterbonia FB)
BALER, Aurora – Police found no evidence of foul play in the drowning of Ateneo de Manila University basketball players Divine Adili and Rene Baterbonia during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on Monday, June 8.
The Aurora Provincial Police Office said Tuesday, June 9, that initial investigation indicated that the incident was an accident and there are no signs of criminal involvement based on the evidence gathered.
Police vowed to complete their investigation to establish a full account of the events leading to the incident.
Their sudden deaths shocked the Philippine sports community and resulted in outpouring of grief and tributes from teammates, coaches, alumni, and supporters.
“The entire Ateneo community mourns the loss of Rene and Divine. The University extends its heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, teammates, coaches, and loved ones. We ask the community to keep them in their prayers during this most difficult time,” Ateneo said in a statement.
The Philippines Sports Commission has formed a panel to investigate the incident as grief, public outrage, and calls for justice echoed.
Baterbonia's mother, Rovelyn, has arrived in Manila to seek answers and pursue justice.