Ateneo de Manila University has accepted the resignations of men's basketball head coach Tab Baldwin and team manager Christopher Quimpo following the deaths of two players. University president Fr. Bobby Yap issued an apology and offered material support to the families.
The resignations come after the deaths of incoming rookie Rene Baterbonia, 18, and Nigerian import Divine Adili, 21. The two players drowned on June 8 during a team building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.
Fr. Yap said on June 15 that the school is studying its options for UAAP Season 89, which begins in September. He added that players remain in deep grief and that no decision has been made on participation.
Baldwin, 68, who led Ateneo to four UAAP championships since 2016, did not appear at a June 15 CIDG fact-finding probe or a DOLE hearing despite subpoenas. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed only athletic director Emmanuel Fernandez attended among those summoned.
Yap described the offered assistance to the families as a moral responsibility rather than a legal settlement. The CIDG and NBI are investigating possible homicide or violations of the Anti-Hazing Law.
