Police Regional Office 3 is currently investigating the untimely passing of Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) rising star Rene Baterbonia and Nigerian student-athlete Divine Adili.
Photo: Rene Baterbonia/Instagram and UAAP
On the evening of June 8, police released their initial findings following reports that both student-athletes drowned during a team-building trip in Dipaculao, Aurora. Rene was only 18, while Divine was 21.
“Initial findings indicate that the victims were swimming when they were reportedly carried by a strong current into deeper waters,” the statement read.
“The victims were promptly transported to a medical facility; however, they were later declared dead by the attending physician,” it added.
PRO 3 assured the public that it will continue to “diligently perform its mandate, conduct a thorough investigation, and coordinate with concerned agencies to ensure that all aspects of the incident are properly addressed.”
As the investigation continues, PRO 3 has urged the public to refrain from speculation and allow the proper authorities to investigate the matter. It also advised beachgoers and tourists to be aware of safety advisories and to be more mindful and cautious as they engage in water activities.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) released a statement, assuring family members, loved ones, and the public that it would cooperate with the ongoing investigations to establish a “clear, accurate, and comprehensive understanding of the events that transpired.”
“The goal is not only to understand what happened, but to ensure that lessons learned lead to safer, more responsive systems that protect athletes while sustaining high-performance sport. Excellence in sport requires environments that push human potential, but never at the expense of safety,” PSC wrote in a statement.
After leading the Davao Region Team to a gold medal at the 2025 Palarong Pambansa, Rene emerged as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP). He was supposed to continue his collegiate basketball career with the Ateneo Blue Eagles.
Meanwhile, Adili played as a center for the Ateneo Blue Eagles. The Nigerian student-athlete was one of the players to watch in the upcoming UAAP Season 89, which is kicking off this September.
May they rest in peace.
ALSO READ: Ateneo Recruit Rene Baterbonia, Student-Athlete Divine Adili Pass Away
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