Two student athletes from Ateneo de Manila University tragically lost their lives during a team-building exercise in the Philippines on June 8. The victims, identified as 19-year-old Rene Clert Baterbonia and 21-year-old Divine Adili, were participating in an activity designed to foster teamwork skills for the university’s men’s basketball team.
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The university confirmed the unfortunate incident in an official statement released on the same day. The school expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the two young men, stating, “It is with profound sadness that Ateneo de Manila University confirms the passing of two student-athletes of the Ateneo Men’s Basketball Team, Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili, following a drowning incident that occurred during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.”
The university community has rallied together in mourning the loss of both Baterbonia and Adili. The institution extended heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, teammates, coaches, and all those who were close to the deceased. The statement continued by asking the community to keep the affected families in their thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
In light of this tragic incident, Ateneo de Manila University has pledged to support the victims’ families while also providing assistance to teammates and community members who have been impacted. The university has requested privacy for all those who are grieving, allowing them the space to come to terms with their sorrow.
Details surrounding the drowning incident remain limited, and the school has indicated that further information regarding the wake and funeral arrangements will be forthcoming once discussions with the families are concluded. Local reports suggest that the community is eager to learn more about the circumstances leading up to the tragedy.
Social media has been inundated with tributes for Baterbonia and Adili, alongside expressions of concern regarding the events that led to their deaths. Many users have called for a full and transparent investigation into the incident. One commenter on social media wrote, “Two young lives were lost. This tragedy deserves a full and transparent investigation. What actions will Ateneo take after this?”
Another individual expressed sympathy for the victims’ families while emphasising the need for an inquiry, stating, “First. RIP to the victims. Second. Where is the statement ‘the incident will be under investigation’? There MUST BE AN INVESTIGATION!”
As calls for accountability grow, Ateneo de Manila University has yet to provide detailed responses to inquiries regarding the incident. The school has refrained from issuing further comments beyond their initial statement, prompting questions about safety protocols during such team activities.
The impact of this tragic event on the Ateneo community, especially among fellow athletes, is likely to be profound and long-lasting. As support mechanisms are put in place, the university will strive to help students navigate the grieving process while addressing concerns around safety in future team-building exercises.
Amidst this heartbreak, it is clear that Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili made an indelible mark on their peers and the institution. The thoughts of the university community and beyond are firmly focused on remembering the lives of these young athletes and providing comfort to those who loved them.