SPORTS
Advocates Philippines
PSC Joins Probe Into Death Of Two Ateneo Student-Athletes
Photo credit: UAAP
The Philippine sports community continues to grieve the loss of Ateneo de Manila University student-athletes Divine Adili, 21, and Rene Clert Baterbonia, 19, who died during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.
In a statement, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) described the incident as a profound tragedy not only for Philippine sports but also for the families, friends, teammates, and supporters of the two young athletes.
As the government agency responsible for sports development and athlete welfare, the PSC said it is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation and will convene a panel composed of key sports stakeholders to help establish a clear and comprehensive understanding of what happened.
The body will work alongside the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), while also reviewing existing policies, safety protocols, and training practices to identify measures that could better protect athletes in the future.
Among those expected to participate in the review are the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the National Youth Commission (NYC).
According to the PSC, the objective is not only to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy but also to ensure that lessons learned lead to stronger safeguards and safer environments for athletes pursuing excellence in sports.
Meanwhile, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO 3) also expressed its deepest condolences to the families, friends, teammates, and the Ateneo community.
Authorities said personnel from the Dipaculao Municipal Police Station immediately responded after receiving reports of the incident and coordinated with concerned agencies to provide assistance. The victims were rushed to a medical facility but were later declared dead by the attending physician.
PRO 3 Regional Director PBGen. Jess B. Mendez assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway. Initial findings indicate that the two student-athletes were swimming when they were reportedly swept by a strong current into deeper waters.
Police urged the public to refrain from speculation while the investigation is ongoing and reminded beachgoers and tourists to follow safety advisories and exercise caution when engaging in water activities, particularly in areas known for strong currents.
As investigations continue, both the PSC and PRO 3 reaffirmed their commitment to seeking answers while standing in solidarity with the bereaved families and everyone affected by the heartbreaking loss of the two young athletes.
In a statement, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) described the incident as a profound tragedy not only for Philippine sports but also for the families, friends, teammates, and supporters of the two young athletes.
As the government agency responsible for sports development and athlete welfare, the PSC said it is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation and will convene a panel composed of key sports stakeholders to help establish a clear and comprehensive understanding of what happened.
The body will work alongside the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), while also reviewing existing policies, safety protocols, and training practices to identify measures that could better protect athletes in the future.
Among those expected to participate in the review are the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the National Youth Commission (NYC).
According to the PSC, the objective is not only to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy but also to ensure that lessons learned lead to stronger safeguards and safer environments for athletes pursuing excellence in sports.
Meanwhile, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO 3) also expressed its deepest condolences to the families, friends, teammates, and the Ateneo community.
Authorities said personnel from the Dipaculao Municipal Police Station immediately responded after receiving reports of the incident and coordinated with concerned agencies to provide assistance. The victims were rushed to a medical facility but were later declared dead by the attending physician.
PRO 3 Regional Director PBGen. Jess B. Mendez assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway. Initial findings indicate that the two student-athletes were swimming when they were reportedly swept by a strong current into deeper waters.
Police urged the public to refrain from speculation while the investigation is ongoing and reminded beachgoers and tourists to follow safety advisories and exercise caution when engaging in water activities, particularly in areas known for strong currents.
As investigations continue, both the PSC and PRO 3 reaffirmed their commitment to seeking answers while standing in solidarity with the bereaved families and everyone affected by the heartbreaking loss of the two young athletes.
Jun 9, 2026
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