Ateneo athletes Rene Clert Baterbonia, Divine Adili pass away
Ateneo Men's Basketball Team players Rene Clert Baterbonia, 19, and Divine Adili, 21, have passed away.
Ateneo de Manila University announced that the two lost their lives on June 8.
"It is with profound sadness that Ateneo de Manila University confirms the passing of two student-athletes of the Ateneo Men's Basketball Team, Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili, following a drowning incident that occurred during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, on the afternoon of June 8, 2026," the university said in a statement.
"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."
The Ateneo added that it is providing support to Baterbonia and Adili's families and their teammates.
It also asked for privacy amid the loss.
Details regarding the wake and funeral arrangements will be announced after consultation with the athletes' families.
Baterbonia, who hails from Agusan del Sur, led Davao to win its first Palarong Pambansa basketball championship in December 2025. The 6-foot-4 former Ateneo de Davao star was hailed the MVP.
In Palarong Pambansa 2026, Baterbonia and the Davao Eagles placed first runner-up.
He transferred to AdMU and was set to play in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines season 89.
Meanwhile, Adili is a 6-foot-10 Nigerian who competed in UAAP Season 88 with Ateneo Blue Eagles. Back issues nagged the big man, causing him to miss some games last season. His return helped Ateneo bounce back from its five-game losing streak, eventually finishing 6-8.