The Student Council Alliance of the Philippines (Scap) and Akbayan Youth have joined the Ateneo community in mourning the tragic deaths of Blue Eagle student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili. The groups express solidarity with the Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral ng mga Paaralang Loyola ng Ateneo de Manila, Buklod Atenista, and the broader Ateneo community during this difficult time.
Calls for Transparent Investigation
As the community seeks answers, Scap and Akbayan Youth join the bereaved families in demanding a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. They emphasize that the truth must be uncovered, accountability ensured, and justice pursued.
The groups call on the Ateneo de Manila University administration to fully cooperate with all investigative processes and to provide timely information, support, and assistance to the families. They stress that the concerns raised by the families must be addressed with sincerity, transparency, and urgency.
Urging the Investigative Panel
Scap and Akbayan Youth also urge the newly-formed investigative panel—comprising the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP), the National Youth Commission (NYC), and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)—to leave no stone unturned and ensure impartiality in consolidating its findings.
The groups call on the panel to review all internal mechanisms within the university and the UAAP, assess their sufficiency and effectiveness, identify lapses, and provide recommendations to prevent such incidents in the future. They stress that the league must remain a safe space for players, coaches, and their families.
Demand for Accountability
Those found liable for the incident must be fully prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and in accordance with administrative guidelines set by the UAAP, CHED, PSC, and other regulatory bodies. The groups insist that no one should escape accountability.
The tragedy raises urgent questions about the safety, welfare, and protection of student-athletes, particularly in activities conducted under institutional supervision. Universities, athletic associations, and sports governing bodies share a responsibility to ensure that every activity undertaken in the name of athletic development prioritizes students' well-being and safety.
Call for Systemic Reform
Beyond mourning, Scap and Akbayan Youth hope this tragedy becomes a catalyst for meaningful reflection and systemic reform. They assert that no family should be left searching for answers after entrusting their children to institutions tasked with their education, development, and protection.
In this time of grief, the groups call on the broader Filipino student movement and the public to stand with the families of Rene and Divine, support the Ateneo community, and continue to demand truth, accountability, and justice.
May the memories of Rene and Divine live on in the communities they helped shape and inspire. The groups express deep condolences and firmly call for truth, accountability, and justice for Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.
