Ateneo de Manila University has put men’s basketball head coach Tab Baldwin and team manager Epok Quimpo on leave while the university conducts an independent fact-finding inquiry into the deaths of student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.
“On leave” in this context is a temporary administrative measure, meaning Baldwin and Quimpo are relieved of all coaching and team management duties for the duration of the investigation.
It is not a disciplinary ruling, nor a determination of fault, but a step intended to ensure the integrity and independence of the inquiry.
The decision was announced by Ateneo president Fr. Bobby Yap, SJ, who emphasized the need for transparency and due process as the university examines the circumstances surrounding the June 8 incident in Aurora.
“To preserve the total integrity, independence, and fairness of this investigation—and to ensure all participants can cooperate freely without any actual or perceived pressure—Head Coach Thomas Anthony ‘Tab’ Baldwin and Team Manager Christopher ‘Epok’ Quimpo have gone on leave for the duration of the inquiry,” Fr. Yap said in a statement.
The move comes after Ateneo’s Board of Trustees ordered a comprehensive investigation into the Aurora tragedy that claimed the lives of two members of the Blue Eagles.
Based on initial information gathered by the university, the team was undergoing a conditioning exercise in knee-deep water near the shoreline when they were suddenly hit by massive waves and a strong rip current.
“While most of the players managed to fight their way back to safety, Rene and Divine were pulled away,” Fr. Yap said.
He also addressed circulating claims about the nature of the activity, categorically stating that no weights were used during the exercise.
Ateneo stressed that its priority remains the welfare of the bereaved families.
“The Ateneo de Manila University community continues to bear the profound weight and sorrow of losing two of our own,” Fr. Yap said.
“No words can heal the void left by this tragedy, and our immediate, absolute priority remains enveloping their grieving families with the material, emotional, and pastoral support they need during this time of unimaginable pain.”
The independent inquiry will reconstruct a full timeline of events, review safety protocols, and interview all individuals involved. Findings will be submitted to the Board of Trustees for appropriate action in accordance with due process.
The university reiterated that it is cooperating fully with national authorities and regulatory bodies as investigations continue.
