The Department of Justice (DOJ) has tasked the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to conduct a probe into the deaths by drowning of Divine Adili and Rene Baterbonia, two members of the Ateneo de Manila University men’s basketball team during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8. Adili was a foreign student-athlete whp was the Blue Eagles’i UAAP Season 88 Men’s Basketball Tournament.
In a statement, the DOJ said: “The (NBI) Central Office has been instructed to create a task force to conduct a thorough, comprehensive, and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
The NBI will determine whether there is sufficient basis to recommend the filing of charges before the DOJ,” it added, saying it remains committed to ensuring the facts are fully established and that justice is served in the case.
The victims reportedly drowned after being swept away by a strong ocean current. They were rushed the two to a nearby medical facility, but were declared them dead-on-arrival by the attending physician.
In its initial probe, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) said the victims were swimming when they unexpectedly encountered a powerful, unpredictable undertow that pulled them into the deeper part of the waters.
The Ateneo de Manila University meanwhile said it 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.
“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. We respectfully ask for privacy and space for all those grieving as they come to terms with this profound loss,” the statement said.
It added: “As a community, we mourn with the families and loved ones of Rene and Divine and entrust them to God’s loving mercy. We ask for continued prayers for all who are affected by this tragedy.”
