Divine Adili’s parents arrived in the Philippines on Sunday evening, days before Ateneo begins its UAAP Season 89 men’s basketball campaign, with the Blue Eagles carrying the memory of their fallen teammates throughout the season.
Elias Adili and Ifeoma Joy Adili will spend the coming days with members of the Blue Eagles and will be on hand for their first two games of the tournament, beginning with their season debut against the UE Red Warriors on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Wednesday, September 16, will also mark 100 days since Divine and Baterbonia passed away during an Ateneo team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.
The Adilis’ arrival marks their first visit to the Philippines.
“Tonight, we warmly welcome Mr. and Mrs. Adili to Manila and to the Ateneo community,” Ateneo said in a statement.
“Their arrival marks their first visit to the Philippines, and we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to have them with us and to spend time together in the days ahead.”
(C) Julius Domondon
The Blue Eagles have dedicated the upcoming season to Divine and Baterbonia.
For Adili’s parents, their visit provides an opportunity to spend time with the teammates, friends, and members of the Ateneo community who shared an important part of their son’s life.
“In the coming days, they will be with members of the Ateneo Men’s Basketball Team and will attend the Blue Eagles’ first two games of UAAP Season 89,” the school said.
Ateneo also appealed to the community to welcome the Adili family with compassion while respecting their privacy as they continue to grieve.
“Above all, they are parents who continue to grieve the loss of their son,” Ateneo said.
“We hope their time in Ateneo allows them to remember Divine through the people who knew him, played alongside him, and cared for him.”
The Blue Eagles will begin a new chapter on Wednesday, but for Ateneo, the season will also be a continuation of a promise to remember Divine and Baterbonia.
“May their visit be a meaningful one, surrounded by the community that continues to hold Divine, Rene, and their families close.”
