The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has found varying accounts from players and coaching staff of the Ateneo de Manila University men's basketball team regarding a team-building activity in Aurora province on June 8, which resulted in the deaths of two student-athletes.
CIDG Investigation Update
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said on Friday that former Ateneo men's basketball head coach Tab Baldwin, coaching staff member Dean Castaño, and athletics director Em Fernandez appeared before the CIDG at Camp Crame in Quezon City on Friday morning as part of the ongoing investigation.
“They gave their knowledge of the events. There are some inconsistencies between what the players and what the coaches said, but we are not done yet,” Remulla told reporters in an interview outside the CIDG headquarters.
He added, “Their vantage points are different. The players were in the sea. The coaches were on the shore. We are just gathering the full details and then we will make a conclusive report.”
Remulla said the CIDG has subpoenaed Ateneo de Manila University president Fr. Roberto Yap, SJ, for the continuation of the fact-finding probe next Thursday.
He also noted that Ateneo men's basketball team manager Epok Quimpo has not yet personally appeared before the CIDG, but did not clarify whether he would be required to attend on another date.
No statement was released by Baldwin or his camp to the media. Lawmakers and reporters were also barred from approaching the CIDG headquarters.
Deaths Under Investigation
The CIDG is investigating the deaths of Rene Baterbonia, 18, and Divine Adili, 21.
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the CIDG's extensive investigation into the incident is valuable for establishing safety standards and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
“We owe it to the grieving families of Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili to complete a full and impartial investigation before drawing any conclusion,” he said.
“Rushing the process may overlook critical facts that determine whether this was an accident, negligence, or a possible violation of the law,” Nartatez added.
Investigators are looking into possible violations of the Anti-Hazing Act in connection with the deaths of Baterbonia and Adili.
