Investigators have ruled out foul play in the drowning of two members of the Ateneo De Manila Blue Eagles basketball team in Batangas province on Monday, June 8, 2026. In a press conference, Aurora Police Provincial Office acting director Police Colonel Percival Pineda stated that the deaths of Divine Adili, 21, and Rene Clert Baterbonia, 19, were "purely accidental."
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred around 2:40 p.m. while approximately 20 team members, including players and coaching staff, were conducting a team-building activity at the beach. According to witness accounts, the players were walking along the shoreline in water that was only thigh-deep when they suddenly stepped into a deeper section. The current then swept them into even deeper waters.
"Based on the accounts of the people we spoke with, they were engaged in an activity where the players were walking along the shoreline. The water was only about thigh-deep, but they suddenly reached a deeper section. The area they were walking through had a deep spot, and that was where they were suddenly swept by the current into a deeper part of the sea," Pineda explained.
Companions and a lifeguard attempted to rescue the victims, but unfortunately, both individuals lost their lives. They were rushed to Aurora Memorial Hospital but were declared dead on arrival.
Familiarity with the Area
Pineda noted that the team had conducted team-building activities in the same location before and was familiar with the sea conditions. He urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information about the incident. "Let us avoid spreading unverified information that is circulating. This information may be inaccurate. To help the family as they grieve, let us refrain from doing this and respect their peace and privacy," he said.
Further Investigation Ordered
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla announced that he has ordered the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group to conduct an in-depth investigation into the incident to ensure all circumstances are thoroughly examined.
