The deaths of Ateneo de Manila University student-athletes Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili have triggered a widening investigation that now reaches police, the justice department, education regulators, and Ateneo’s own leadership.
The DILG said subpoenas have been issued to the Ateneo coaches and players who were present during the June 8, 2026 team activity in Dipaculao, Aurora. The agency said the fact-finding process includes an examination of possible violations of Republic Act No. 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018.
“Subpoenas have been issued to the coaches and players present during the activity as part of fact-finding efforts, including the examination of possible violations of Republic Act No. 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018,” the DILG said.
The case has also drawn the Department of Justice. The DOJ directed the National Bureau of Investigation to form a task force that will conduct a thorough and impartial probe, with investigators expected to determine whether there is basis to recommend charges.
Aurora police said the athletes were participating in a team-building and training activity when Baterbonia and Adili drowned. Police said the incident happened around 2:40 p.m. A resort lifeguard was informed about 10 minutes later. Baterbonia was recovered at around 3:35 p.m., while Adili was recovered at around 3:45 p.m.
Police said the team held the activity about 300 meters away from the resort’s designated safe area, despite resort management reportedly advising them to stay in the shallow waters in front of the establishment.
Aurora police chief Col. Percival Pineda said Ateneo coach Tab Baldwin was present in the area.
“He was there. The group was there by the sea,” Pineda said.
Pineda also said Baldwin was present during the rescue efforts, but police have not established whether he was leading the activity. Investigators initially failed to get his statement because he was reportedly in a state of shock.
Ateneo has placed Baldwin and team manager Christopher “Epok” Quimpo on leave while the university conducts a fact-finding inquiry. Ateneo said the move aims to preserve the integrity, independence, and fairness of the investigation.
Ateneo said the team was doing “conditioning exercises in knee-deep water near the shoreline” when massive waves and a powerful rip current hit the group. The university also said “no weights of any kind were used during this exercise.”
CHED has ordered Ateneo to submit a comprehensive incident report. Police said they continue to examine possible negligence by organizers, the resort, or other parties involved.
