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Ateneo Launches Probe After Tragic Loss Of Two Student-Athletes
Photo credit: Ateneo de Manila
The Ateneo de Manila University has released a detailed statement expressing grief and outlining an independent investigation following the deaths of two of its student-athletes, Rene Clert Baterbonia and Chukwuemeka Divine Adili.
The university said the Ateneo community continues to mourn the loss of the two young athletes, describing the tragedy as a devastating moment for students, coaches, and families.
“We stand in deep, unbroken solidarity and prayer with their parents, their families, their teammates, and everyone whose lives were touched by these two exceptional young men,” the statement said.
According to Ateneo, the incident happened on June 8, 2026, during a conditioning exercise conducted near the shoreline in knee-deep water. The university said the team was suddenly hit by large waves and a strong rip current, which caused some players to be swept away. While most were able to return safely, Baterbonia and Adili were carried off by the current.
The school also clarified that no weights were used during the exercise, addressing speculation surrounding the activity.
In response to the incident, Ateneo confirmed that its Board of Trustees has ordered a comprehensive fact-finding inquiry. The investigation will review athletic protocols, reconstruct the timeline, and gather accounts from all individuals involved.
The university emphasized that the goal is to establish a clear and transparent account of what happened, while ensuring accountability and strengthening safety measures for future activities.
To preserve the independence of the inquiry, Head Coach Thomas Anthony “Tab” Baldwin and Team Manager Christopher “Epok” Quimpo have both taken leave while the investigation is ongoing.
Ateneo also said it is fully cooperating with national authorities and regulatory bodies as multiple investigations proceed.
“We ask our community for their continued prayers as we navigate this dark chapter,” the statement added, signed by University President Fr. Roberto C. Yap, S.J.
The university said the Ateneo community continues to mourn the loss of the two young athletes, describing the tragedy as a devastating moment for students, coaches, and families.
“We stand in deep, unbroken solidarity and prayer with their parents, their families, their teammates, and everyone whose lives were touched by these two exceptional young men,” the statement said.
According to Ateneo, the incident happened on June 8, 2026, during a conditioning exercise conducted near the shoreline in knee-deep water. The university said the team was suddenly hit by large waves and a strong rip current, which caused some players to be swept away. While most were able to return safely, Baterbonia and Adili were carried off by the current.
The school also clarified that no weights were used during the exercise, addressing speculation surrounding the activity.
In response to the incident, Ateneo confirmed that its Board of Trustees has ordered a comprehensive fact-finding inquiry. The investigation will review athletic protocols, reconstruct the timeline, and gather accounts from all individuals involved.
The university emphasized that the goal is to establish a clear and transparent account of what happened, while ensuring accountability and strengthening safety measures for future activities.
To preserve the independence of the inquiry, Head Coach Thomas Anthony “Tab” Baldwin and Team Manager Christopher “Epok” Quimpo have both taken leave while the investigation is ongoing.
Ateneo also said it is fully cooperating with national authorities and regulatory bodies as multiple investigations proceed.
“We ask our community for their continued prayers as we navigate this dark chapter,” the statement added, signed by University President Fr. Roberto C. Yap, S.J.
Jun 11, 2026
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