PBA stars react to untimely demise of ‘Blue Eagles’ cagers
As a basketball girl since birth, an avid PBA/NBA fan and an ex-wife of a former pro cager, the death of two players of the Ateneo Men’s basketball team, Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, hit home. How tragic that they died during their team-building in Aurora.
What a sad irony that while Fil-Am hoopers, Dylan Harper and Jordan Clarkson, are making waves at the NBA Finals, the two “Blue Eagles” ballers drowned to death.
The accident serves as a wake-up call in the sports world. How much is too much when it comes to training athletes? Are university/national athletes protected and compensated enough?
My heart goes out to the family of Rene and Divine. The two players were true blue “Blue Eagles” till their last breath as they trained over and beyond the call of duty for Ateneo and the love of basketball.
I asked PBA stars for their sentiments about the tragedy. Here goes:
James Yap: “Nobody can be blamed for what happened to the two players because it was an accident. As athletes, our bodies are our capital. It’s sad that the bodies of Rene and Divine were not able to withstand the pressure of the sea. Just like NBA superstar Kobe Bryant, who was not able to save himself from the plane crash no matter how physically strong he was.”
Benjie Paras: “It’s not the time to point fingers. Let’s mourn with their families and friends. Let this be a lesson for all.”
Alex Cabagnot: “Ateneo is a world-class institution. I’m positive they will do the right things in the coming days. Deepest condolences to all families involved. Sad day for the basketball community.”
Arwind Santos: “What happened to the Ateneo players is so heartbreaking. Rene was the hope of his family. Just like most players who turn pro, basketball could have given his family a better life. Rene could have been part of Gilas Pilipinas and bring us pride.”
Ara happy for Sis Cristine
Ara Mina and Cristine Reyes, a.k.a. AA, had sibling quarrels that made headline material. But that episode in their life served as a renewal of their bond. It made them understand each other more. The fab sisters are now living and loving happily ever after as Mrs. Dave Almarinez (Ara) and soon-to-be Mrs. Gio Tingson (Cristine).
Here’s Ara’s reaction to AA’s engagement to Gio:
“I am happy and excited for AA and Gio. My advice for AA is ‘di dapat mawawala (ang) communication, respect and friendship nila. Kahit gaano kayo ka-in love, there will be seasons na magiging challenging ang life. Learn to talk openly, listen with empathy and never stop being each other’s safe space.
“As for her fiancé Gio, he seems very supportive, sincere and genuinely happy with AA. I like how he respects and appreciates my sister for who she is.”
First-ever ‘Sparkle Run’
Sparkle GMA Artist Center made history with its first-ever “Sparkle Run” at the Quirino Grandstand. From the break of dawn until the final performance, the star-studded event transformed Manila into a vibrant hub of fitness, fun and Kapuso energy.
Alden Richards, Barbie Forteza, David Licauco, Gabbi Garcia, Ai-Ai delas Alas, Pokwang, Max Collins and Dingdong Dantes graced the event.
“Pinoy Big Brother” former housemates Mika Salamanca, Will Ashley, Dustin Yu, AZ Martinez, Vince Maristela, Josh Ford and Charlie Fleming and other Kapuso artists also joined the race.
Off the course, the race village delivered its own kind of thrill — live performances from Garrett Bolden and Accento Band, Paul Salas, Dollipop, Vianna Ricafranca and Cloud 7.
Hosts Martin Javier, Hannah Arguelles, Yza Uy and Betong Sumaya kept the energy electric all day, with Sparkle first VP, Joy Marcelo, lending her presence to mark the occasion.
One run. Thousands of Kapuso moments, and Sparkle is just getting started.
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