Gretchen Ho, hindi napigil ang puna matapos ang naging tugon ng Ateneo

• Gretchen Ho criticized Ateneo de Manila University following the deaths of two student-athletes
• Divine Adili and Rene Clert Baterbonia died during a team-building activity in Aurora
• Ho questioned the university's response and called for greater empathy toward the bereaved familie
• Several alumni and netizens echoed her sentiments regarding the school's official statement

Former volleyball player and television host Gretchen Ho has publicly expressed disappointment with her alma mater, Ateneo de Manila University, following the deaths of basketball players Divine Adili and Rene Clert Baterbonia.

The two student-athletes died on June 8 during a team-building activity in Aurora. Their deaths sparked widespread calls for justice online, with many social media users seeking accountability and answers regarding the tragic drowning incident.

Sharing the university's recent statement on social media, Ho questioned what she viewed as a lack of compassion in the institution's public response.

“I do not understand how difficult it is to at least give apologies, comfort and condolences. May namatayan. The fact-finding can wait. It has its own time,” Gretchen asserted.

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The former Ateneo student-athlete emphasized that empathy for grieving families should come first before discussions about investigations and official findings.

Ho also reacted to the university's statement that said it had asked Coach Tab Baldwin to refrain from making public comments while facts surrounding the incident were still being established.

“Basic humanity dictates at least showing up for the bereaved. This is not the Ateneo I know,” Gretchen maintained.

Her comments quickly drew support from friends, fellow alumni, and social media users who shared similar concerns regarding the tone of the university's statement.

One supporter commented, “I completely agree, Gretchen. What was desperately needed was a human face. Someone prepared to show empathy and compassion. Instead, they retreated behind the safety of these PR posts. The most disappointing part is that they seem to still not understand why people expected more.”

Another netizen also criticized the statement.

“This statement has been sanitized by PR and Legal experts, it has lost its soul, humanity and heart,” a commenter expressed.

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Ateneo had earlier confirmed the deaths of Divine Adili and Rene Clert Baterbonia through an official statement. The university also assured the public that support is being extended to the families of the deceased athletes and asked for continued prayers as the community navigates what it described as a difficult chapter.

As of this writing, the results of the university's fact-finding inquiry have not yet been released.

Gretchen Ho is a Filipino broadcast journalist, television presenter, and former professional volleyball player who initially rose to fame playing for the Ateneo Lady Eagles. Beyond her prominent media career anchoring major news programs, she is a dedicated advocate and entrepreneur who founded the "Woman In Action" platform to champion public service and community empowerment initiatives.

In another report, former Ateneo athlete Gretchen Ho shared her deep sorrow over the deaths of Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, saying the tragedy felt especially personal to her. The broadcaster called for transparency and accountability as authorities continue to investigate the incident. She stressed that providing clear information is important, warning that a lack of answers could lead to speculation and misinformation. Gretchen also expressed trust that Ateneo and the agencies involved will handle the matter responsibly and pursue the truth.

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Meanwhile, Gretchen Ho gave followers a glimpse of her family's newly blessed farm by sharing photos from the special occasion. A Catholic priest visited the property to conduct a blessing and celebrate Mass with her loved ones. The television host revealed that owning a farm had been one of her dreams since childhood and described the place as a peaceful sanctuary for her family. She added that she hopes the property, which she now considers her new home, will become a place where others can deepen their faith and encounter God.

Source: KAMI.com.gh