ATENEO BLUE EAGLES MOURN TWO PLAYERS LOST IN DROWNING TRAGEDY

The Philippine basketball community is mourning the loss of two promising student-athletes after members of the Ateneo de Manila University Men's Basketball Team, Rene Clert Baterbonia, 19, and Divine Adili, 21, died in a drowning incident during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on Monday, June 8.

In an official statement, Ateneo confirmed the tragic deaths of the two players and expressed its deepest condolences to their families, teammates, coaches, and loved ones.

“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 said.

The university added that support is being extended to the bereaved families and members of the Ateneo community affected by the tragedy. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced after consultation with the families.

According to initial findings released by the Philippine National Police Regional Office 3, the victims were reportedly swimming when they were carried by a strong current into deeper waters. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing.

Baterbonia was one of the country's rising basketball stars. The 6-foot-4 standout from Agusan del Sur helped Davao Region capture its first-ever Palarong Pambansa basketball championship in 2025 and was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player. He was set to make his UAAP debut with the Blue Eagles in Season 89.

Adili, a 6-foot-10 Nigerian center, suited up for Ateneo during UAAP Season 88 and emerged as one of the team's promising young big men. Before joining the Blue Eagles, he starred in the high school ranks and helped establish himself as a dominant presence on the court.

Tributes poured in from across the Philippine sports community, including the UAAP and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, both of which expressed sympathy and solidarity with the families and the Ateneo community.

The deaths of Baterbonia and Adili have left teammates, coaches, and fans devastated, as two young athletes with bright futures were taken far too soon. As investigations continue, the nation joins the Ateneo community in mourning their loss.