The Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has completed its crime scene reconstruction at a resort in Dipaculao, Aurora, where two members of the Ateneo de Manila University men’s basketball team drowned earlier this month, as authorities shifted the investigation away from treating the incident as a simple accident and toward determining possible criminal liabilities.
CIDG investigators, assisted by forensic experts, conducted the reconstruction on June 23 using 3D scanning equipment and sonar technology to map the underwater terrain and shoreline. The findings were matched against witness accounts to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.
CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II said the investigation is focused on possible homicide through reckless imprudence or negligence and violations of the Anti-Hazing Act.
The reconstruction concludes the CIDG’s case build-up before the filing of criminal complaints with the Department of Justice.
Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla and PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the CIDG is expected to recommend charges against 10 to 11 members of the Ateneo sports and coaching organization on Friday, June 26.
Police Colonel Percival Pineda, acting provincial director of the Aurora Police Provincial Office, was also relieved from his post over his handling of the case.
Pineda had publicly declared the incident a “purely an accident” and said investigators found no foul play. Nartatez said he was removed after his premature public statements compromised the integrity of the investigation.
The Department of Justice will evaluate the CIDG’s complaint once it is formally submitted.
