Ateneo de Manila University continues to mourn the tragic passing of student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili following a drowning incident during a team-building activity in Aurora.
The incident occurred at Hermanos Leisure Farm and Surf Camp in Barangay Libis, Dipaculao, where both athletes passed away on Monday.
In an official statement, the university expressed its deep grief and solidarity with the families left behind.
“We remain united in prayer with their families, teammates, coaches, friends, and all members of the University community who are grieving this profound loss,” the statement read.
Since the incident, the university said it has been coordinating closely with the families of Baterbonia and Adili to extend support and assistance as they navigate what it described as an “extremely difficult time.”
On Tuesday morning, the remains of both student-athletes were transferred from Aurora Memorial Hospital to Arlington Memorial Chapels and Crematory in Quezon City.
At the request of Baterbonia’s family, an autopsy will be conducted, with the university coordinating with authorities, including the National Bureau of Investigation and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, to facilitate the process.
Later in the day, Ateneo president Fr. Bobby Yap, SJ met with Baterbonia’s family upon their arrival from Davao City. He conveyed the university’s condolences, prayed with them, and blessed the remains of Baterbonia.
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The family of Adili, meanwhile, has requested that his remains be repatriated to Nigeria in accordance with their cultural and family traditions.
The university said it is assisting with the necessary arrangements and is awaiting the required authorization to proceed with documentation.
No final funeral or wake arrangements have been announced for either Baterbonia or Adili.
Beyond the immediate arrangements, Ateneo also shared that the Blue Eagles, along with coaches, underwent psychological debriefing and counseling sessions facilitated by the College Guidance Office after returning from Aurora.
The university emphasized that mental health support will continue in the coming days and weeks.
“We ask for patience, compassion, and prayers for everyone who is carrying the burden of this loss,” the statement read.
