The Philippine National Police (PNP) has confirmed the recovery of closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage from a beach resort in Dipaculao, Aurora, where two Ateneo de Manila University basketball players drowned. The victims were identified as Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili.
According to PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., the investigation is ongoing using forensic and evidence-based procedures to establish the exact sequence of events. The police are also coordinating with other agencies and parties involved in the incident.
Based on initial reports, the student-athletes were conducting a team-building activity on Monday when Baterbonia and Adili were swept away by strong currents. They were found near the shore after 30 to 40 minutes.
Nartatez urged the public to refrain from spreading speculation and unverified information on social media and to respect the bereaved families as the investigation progresses. He also assured that there would be no cover-up in the case.
To recall, Baterbonia, 19, was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 2025 Palarong Pambansa secondary boys basketball tournament, while Adili, a 21-year-old Nigerian student-athlete, played in the UAAP Season 88 men's basketball tournament last year.
