NBI recommends charges vs ex-Ateneo coach Tab Baldwin, 11 others
The National Bureau of Investigation has recommended to the Department of Justice the filing of charges against former Ateneo coach Tab Baldwin and 11 other individuals over the deaths of student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.
The NBI sought raps for reckless imprudence resulting in homicide against Baldwin, six assistant coaches, and a physical therapist.
Meanwhile, it also recommended charges of simple negligence resulting in homicide against three owners of the resort in Dipaculao, Aurora, where the team-building training was held, and an athletic director.
According to a copy of the transmittal letter posted by DZRH, the complainants in the case are Baterbonia's mother, Rovelyn Baterbonia, the Embassy of Nigeria in the Philippines, and the NBI.
Before the recommendation of charges, Baldwin and several other individuals were interviewed by the NBI Homicide Division in June.
Baterbonia and Adili passed away on June 8 after drowning during the Ateneo Blue Eagles' team-building activity.
On June 26, the CIDG previously recommended that the DOJ launch a preliminary investigation into possible violations of the Anti-Hazing Act involving Baldwin and 10 other individuals. The respondents named in the recommendation include five members of the coaching staff and the team's physical therapist. Department of the Interior and Local Government Sec. Jonvic Remulla later clarified that the charges may not include the two student managers and two ball boys who were part of the activity.
On July 1, the CIDG recommended filing two additional counts of homicide and two counts of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide against Baldwin and eight others over the tragedy.
Baldwin spoke out about the incident on June 12, apologizing to the players' families.
He and team manager Epok Quimpo have since resigned over the tragedy.