The local government unit of Talacogon has officially declared June 8 as “Rene Clert Baterbonia Day,” a permanent commemoration honoring one of its most beloved sons and his lasting legacy in sports development, discipline, and community service.
The declaration was formalized through Municipal Ordinance No. 430-2026, which was announced on Tuesday during the final day of the memorial service for Baterbonia.
Talacogon, a rural town in Agusan del Sur with a population of approximately 37,744, is widely known as the wood processing capital of the province.
The special observance aims to preserve the memory of Baterbonia’s contributions, not only as a proud native of Talacogon, but also as a figure who strengthened youth sports and community engagement in the municipality.
June 8 marks the tragic day when Baterbonia and Divine Adili passed away during a “team-building” activity conducted by the Ateneo Blue Eagles in Dipaculao, Aurora.
As part of his final arrangements, Baterbonia will be laid to rest at the new municipal cemetery in Barangay Labnig, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur.
He will be the first individual interred in the newly developed burial site.
Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University has requested its community to observe a 40-day period of mourning, which will run until July 17, in honor of Baterbonia and Adili.
In a statement, Ateneo president Fr. Bobby C. Yap, SJ outlined the university’s mourning protocols and encouraged collective prayer across its campuses.
“During these days of mourning, we shall fly the Ateneo flag at half-mast, offer the daily Masses at the College Chapel for Rene and Divine, retain the black cloth on our campus fences, temper celebratory announcements and activities where possible, and adjust the LuxID (Lux in Domino) Electronic Billboard messaging accordingly. I encourage our various academic units and administrative offices to hold other appropriate Catholic and University rituals of mourning,” Fr. Yap said in a statement.
“As we observe this communal period of mourning, let us commend the souls of Rene and Divine to our Lord and accompany them with our fervent prayers. May the mercy of God through the intercession of our Blessed Virgin Mary sustain their bereaved families and friends and grant peace and eternal rest to Rene and Divine.”
