When the Department of the Interior and Local Government disclosed the 11 individuals whom the Philippine National Police–Criminal Investigation and Detection Group recommended for charges under the Anti-Hazing Act in connection with the drowning incident in Dipaculao, Aurora that claimed the lives of Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, four names came as a surprise.
Aside from former head coach Tab Baldwin, assistant coaches Dean Castano, Sandro Soriano, and Jon Jacinto, strength and conditioning coaches CJ Elumba and Grant Dearns, and physical therapist Jerick Rueca, the list also included student-managers Paolo Adevoso and Andrew Salud, as well as team support staff Aris Pronce and Boy Rapa.
The four were not members of the coaching staff. Adevoso and Salud served as student-managers, primarily handling liaison duties, while Pronce and Rapa assisted the team as support staff during practices and games.
On Friday evening, Ateneo de Manila University issued a statement acknowledging the concern and anxiety caused by the inclusion of the four in the complaint.
In response, the university said it has extended support to them and their families throughout the legal proceedings.
“Recognizing the unique circumstances and needs of those affected, the University has reached out to them and their families to offer appropriate support and accompaniment throughout the legal process, while respecting that each respondent’s rights and interests must be represented independently,” the statement read.
“Our foremost concern is the welfare of our students and staff, and the assurance that each of them receives the support, fairness, and due process they deserve.”
Adevoso is an incoming fourth-year BS Business Management student, while Salud is a graduating fourth-year BS Business Management student majoring in Communications Technology.
Pronce and Rapa, meanwhile, are support staff who assist the team during practices and games.
