Police Probe Fatal Drowning of Ateneo Hoopsters in Aurora
The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO 3) has launched a thorough investigation into the tragic drowning of two Ateneo de Manila University basketball players in Dipaculao, Aurora on Monday. The victims, Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, were swept away by a strong current during a team building activity.
Authorities Seek Sobriety and Patience
In a statement released Monday, PRO 3 assured the public of a diligent probe. The police emphasized their commitment to uncovering the facts, noting they will continue to diligently perform their mandate and coordinate with concerned agencies to ensure all aspects of the incident are properly addressed.
We respectfully ask the public to refrain from speculation and allow the authorities to complete the investigation.
Initial reports from the Dipaculao Municipal Police Station indicate that the athletes were swimming when they were carried into deeper waters. Despite the immediate response and coordination with local agencies to provide medical assistance, both Baterbonia and Adili were later declared dead by the attending physician.
A Proud Son of Davao and a Valued Teammate
The loss resonates deeply across the archipelago, from the courts of Metro Manila to the rural towns of Mindanao. Baterbonia, a 19-year-old standing 6-foot-4, was a proud product of Ateneo de Davao and a former Palarong Pambansa champion and MVP. He recently led the Davao Region team to a runner-up finish in the 2026 Palarong Pambansa in Agusan del Sur, where they narrowly missed a second straight championship against Region IV-A. He was set to begin his collegiate journey with the Blue Eagles in UAAP Season 89, having been spotted just last Saturday watching Ateneo's preseason game against Adamson University.
Adili, 21, served as the team's foreign student athlete reinforcement in Season 88, where the Blue Eagles finished with a 6-8 card. His contribution to the squad remains deeply valued by his peers and coaches.
Prayers and Solidarity Across the Nation
The entire Philippine sports community is in mourning. The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) both issued statements offering their condolences. The SBP has been in communication with university officials to determine what assistance may be needed for those most affected by the tragedy.
During this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with the families, teammates, coaches, friends, and the entire Ateneo community. We join them in mourning this heartbreaking loss and offer our prayers for strength, comfort, and healing.
Ateneo rookie Kieffer Alas confirmed that the Blue Eagles will dedicate their upcoming UAAP Season 89 campaign to their late teammates. As the faithful offer Masses for the eternal repose of their souls, PRO 3 stands in solidarity with the bereaved families. Authorities reminded beachgoers and tourists to observe safety advisories and exercise extra caution when engaging in water activities amid possible strong currents.