Pulisya, iimbestigahang maiigi ang pagpanaw ng 2 Ateneo basketball players

• Two Ateneo Blue Eagles student-athletes tragically lost their lives during a team-building activity in Aurora
• Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili reportedly drowned after being carried by strong currents into deeper waters while swimming
• The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief from the Ateneo community, fellow athletes, and sports fans nationwide
• Authorities have launched an investigation and urged the public to avoid speculation as inquiries continue

The Ateneo de Manila University community is mourning the loss of two promising student-athletes after a tragic drowning incident during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8. The victims were identified as Rene Baterbonia, 19, and Divine Adili, 21, both members of the Ateneo Blue Eagles men’s basketball program.

Baterbonia was considered one of the country’s rising basketball talents. The young athlete came from Ateneo de Davao and gained national recognition after being named Most Valuable Player at the 2025 Palarong Pambansa. His impressive performances on the court had earned him a reputation as one of the brightest young prospects in Philippine basketball.

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Meanwhile, Adili was a Nigerian student-athlete who had already seen action in UAAP Season 88. Known for his athleticism and dedication, he had become an important part of Ateneo’s basketball program and was well-liked by teammates and coaches.

According to initial reports, the two athletes were participating in a team-building activity in Dipaculao when the tragedy occurred.

Following the incident, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO 3) released an official statement expressing sympathy to the families and loved ones of the victims.

“The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO 3) expresses its deepest condolences to the families, friends, teammates, and the entire Ateneo de Manila University community following the tragic drowning incident that claimed the lives of two student-athletes in Dipaculao, Aurora, on June 8, 2026,” the statement read.

Authorities said personnel from the Dipaculao Municipal Police Station immediately responded after receiving information regarding the incident and coordinated with concerned agencies to provide assistance.

The victims were rushed to a medical facility for treatment. However, both were later declared dead by the attending physician.

PRO 3 also assured the public that a thorough investigation is ongoing.

“PRO 3 assures 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,” the statement added.

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While the investigation has yet to be completed, police disclosed that preliminary findings indicate the victims were swimming when they were reportedly swept by a strong current into deeper waters.

Authorities also appealed to the public to refrain from speculation while the investigation is underway.

“We respectfully ask the public to refrain from speculation and allow the authorities to complete the investigation. We also urge beachgoers and tourists to observe safety advisories and exercise extra caution when engaging in water activities, particularly in areas where strong currents may be present,” PRO 3 stated.

The statement was signed by PBGEN Jess B. Mendez, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 3.

Aside from this tragedy, there have been other athletes recently who made headlines due to their untimely deaths.

Previously, the Memphis Grizzlies announced the passing of forward Brandon Clarke at the age of 29, sparking widespread mourning throughout the basketball world. The NBA franchise remembered him as an exceptional teammate and individual whose influence extended far beyond the court. His management group, Priority Sports, also honored Clarke’s legacy, describing him as a compassionate and supportive person who positively impacted many lives throughout his basketball journey. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver likewise paid tribute, recognizing Clarke as a respected leader and valued member of the Grizzlies organization.

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Earlier, the local athletics community was saddened by the death of Mark Dave Nicolas, an 18-year-old standout from Adamson University’s boys’ track and field team. Following his passing, the UAAP released a statement honoring his achievements and extending condolences to his family and teammates. Nicolas had established himself as one of the country’s most promising young runners after setting a new Palarong Pambansa record in the 800 meters and winning a silver medal for the Philippines at the ASEAN School Games. He is remembered not only for his accomplishments on the track but also for inspiring fellow young athletes to pursue excellence in sports.

Source: KAMI.com.gh