MANILA — Ateneo de Manila University student-athletes Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili were reportedly swept into deeper waters by a strong current while swimming during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on Monday.
According to initial findings by the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO-3), the two members of the Blue Eagles men’s basketball team were among a group of players participating in the activity when the incident occurred.
“While the investigation remains ongoing, initial findings indicate that the victims were swimming when they were reportedly carried by a strong current into deeper waters,” PRO-3 said in a statement.
The regional police office said personnel from the Dipaculao Municipal Police Station immediately responded after receiving information about the incident and coordinated with other government agencies to provide assistance.
“Based on initial reports, personnel of the Dipaculao Municipal Police Station immediately responded upon receiving information regarding the incident and coordinated with concerned agencies to provide the necessary assistance,” the statement read.
Authorities said the victims were immediately brought to a medical facility, but efforts to save them proved unsuccessful.
“The victims were promptly transported to a medical facility; however, they were later declared dead by the attending physician,” PRO-3 added.
Police said an investigation remains ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy and assured the public that all aspects of the case are being thoroughly examined.
“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 regional office said.
Authorities also called on the public to refrain from speculation while investigators complete their work and reminded beachgoers and tourists to exercise caution when engaging in water activities, particularly in areas with strong currents.
“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 said.
The deaths of Baterbonia and Adili have drawn condolences from across the Philippine sports community, with various organizations expressing support for their families, teammates, coaches, and the Ateneo community as they mourn the loss of the two young athletes./PN
