Metro Manila, Philippines – The Ateneo de Manila University lost its two men’s basketball players – Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili – who drowned during a team building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on Monday, June 8.
Ateneo confirmed the unfortunate offseason development in a statement.
“The entire Ateneo community mourns the loss of Rene and Divine. The University extends its heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, teammates, coaches, and loved ones. We ask the community to keep them in their prayers during this most difficult time,” the school said.
Baterbonia, 19, was a former Palarong Pambansa Most Valuable Player who committed to play for Ateneo in February. He led the Davao Region to the Palarong Pambansa title last year and a runner-up finish this year.
Meanwhile, Adili was Ateneo’s foreign student athlete in UAAP Season 88 where he averaged 8.4 points and 8.3 rebounds.
Ateneo vowed to support the families of Baterbonia and Adili.
“The University is providing support to the families of Rene and Divine, as well as to their teammates and members of the Ateneo community affected by this tragedy,” it said.
“We respectfully ask for privacy and space for all those grieving as they come to terms with this profound loss,” it added.
