Ateneo confirms death of 2 varsity cagers

MANILA, Philippines — The Ateneo de Manila University has confirmed the deaths of two men’s basketball student-athletes.

Incoming rookie Rene Clert Baterbonia, 19, and Nigerian import Divine Adili, 21, died in drowning incidents during a team-building activity on Monday in Dipaculao, Aurora.

“We trust that the circumstances of this tragedy will be examined fully and that whatever is found will be addressed with honesty and care for the families,” Ateneo de Davao University president Karel San Juan said yesterday.

The police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group is probing the incident.

Asked if there could be foul play, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said: “We don’t know yet.”

Aurora police director Col. Percival Pineda said no foul play was involved, based on witness testimonies.

An initial police report said the students were swept away by the strong current and drowned off the shores of Hermanos Leisure Farm and Surf Camp in Barangay Lipit.

Rep. Karl Legazpi will file a House resolution seeking an inquiry into the incident, as well as the “adequacy of existing policies, safety standards and accountability mechanisms governing school-sponsored athletic programs.”

Foul play?

Baterbonia’s mother Rovelyn is seeking justice for her son amid reports that at least 20-kilo weights were attached to Rene’s legs and arms.

“I really want justice. What happened? Why did it happen to my son? Why are they making my son swim with 20-kilo weights attached to his legs and arms?” Rovelyn told GMA News.

Before the supposed training, Rovelyn recalled her son informing her that he would not be allowed access to his cell phone.

“I thought it was just training, not military training… Suddenly someone messaged me… When I called, he said, ‘Ma’am, Rene had an accident, he drowned.’ I asked why he went to the sea. My son played basketball, not swimming,” Rovelyn said.

“If I knew they had such training, even though we were poor, I wouldn’t have let my son suffer,” she said.

Rovelyn questioned Ateneo officials’ failure to save her son, pointing out the absence of a rescue team or medic.

Rene was transported back to Manila without a change of clothes, she noted.

“They took my son away without clothes, his shorts were wet and no staff came with him. The funeral home that picked him up said no staff from Ateneo accompanied him,” Rovelyn said.

“My son has a lot of bruises. Where did the bruises come from? There were a lot of bruises on his shoulders and back,” she said, expressing belief that her son was a victim of foul play.

Humble athlete

The Department of Education has extended its condolences and recalled the journey of Baterbonia, whose parents earn a living by selling fish in the local market.

“From the earnings he received in basketball tournaments, he gave 80 percent to his parents to help support their household and his six siblings. For Bobet, every game is more than a competition; it is a chance to change their lives,” the DepEd Region 11 said.

“He dreams of one day earning enough to start a business for his parents so they would no longer need to sell fish in the market and could finally live a more comfortable life,” they said. – Emmanuel Tupas, Delon Porcalla