UAAP extends Ateneo's deadline for Dipaculao tragedy report
The University Athletic Association of the Philippines has extended the deadline for Ateneo de Manila University's submission of the investigation results regarding the Dipaculao tragedy.
According to UAAP's statement on Tuesday, the deadline for Ateneo's investigation findings will be moved from July 15, Wednesday to July 24, Friday.
"Ateneo requested the extension before the original deadline to complete its internal investigation and submit its report. The UAAP Board approved the request during its meeting," UAAP's statement said.
"Any determination of accountability will be based on the findings of the appropriate government agencies, Ateneo’s independent fact-finding body, and the UAAP, in accordance with the UAAP By-Laws and applicable rules and regulations," its statement concluded.
The organization added that members of the Ateneo coaching staff connected to the tragedy will still be barred from all UAAP-related activities as previous preventive measures to Ateneo will remain in effect during the extension period.
Ateneo basketball players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili lost their lives after being carried away by a rip current during a team-building activity at a resort in Dipaculao, Aurora, on June 8.
The Aurora police previously ruled the drowning an accident, and parallel investigations National Bureau of Investigation, the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit, the Philippine Sports Commission, the Commission on Higher Education, and the Aurora local government are ongoing, with initial findings showing no evidence of foul play.
Earlier this week, the NBI sought raps for reckless imprudence resulting in homicide against ex-head coach Tab Baldwin, six assistant coaches, and a physical therapist, which ADMU acknowledged.
"As we have consistently stated, the university will continue to respect the ongoing process, refrain from commenting on matters now before the proper authorities to preserve the integrity of those proceedings, and fully cooperate with all lawful investigations," ADMU said.