Malacañang called for an immediate investigation into the drowning deaths of two Ateneo de Manila University basketball players during a team-building activity. The university announced its own independent probe as multiple agencies intensified inquiries.
The deaths occurred on June 8 in Dipaculao, Aurora, when Rene Clert Baterbonia, 19, and Chukwuemeka Divine Adili, 21, were swept away by strong currents during a conditioning exercise near the shoreline. Ateneo de Manila University confirmed the incident and stated that no weights were used.
On June 11, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. wants a swift probe. “There really needs to be an immediate investigation because the outcome of the supposed training was not good,” she said.
Ateneo president Fr. Roberto Yap announced an independent fact-finding investigation ordered by the board of trustees. Men’s basketball head coach Thomas Anthony “Tab” Baldwin and team manager Christopher Quimpo went on leave. The Department of Labor and Employment summoned Baldwin to explain compliance with labor rules.
The Philippine National Police, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, National Bureau of Investigation, and other agencies issued subpoenas and recovered CCTV footage. Aurora police reported no indication of foul play. Ateneo educators urged school officials to address the matter in person for greater transparency.
