The remains of Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) Blue Eagles basketball player and pride of Agusan del Sur, Rene Baterbonia, were laid to rest yesterday, Wednesday, June 24, 2026 (Philippine time), in his hometown of Talacogon, Agusan del Sur.
Family members, friends, and teammates of Baterbonia joined the funeral convoy. His body was the first to be interred at the Talacogon Municipal Memorial Park.
Drowning Tragedy During Team Building
Baterbonia was one of two Blue Eagles players who lost their lives after drowning during a team building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8. The other fatality was Nigerian big man Divine Adili.
The 18-year-old Baterbonia began his basketball career in Talacogon, playing for Ateneo de Davao University, which he led to a gold medal in the 2025 Palarong Pambansa boys' basketball competition. He was named MVP of that tournament.
Promising Future Cut Short
According to sources, Baterbonia had a bright future as a basketball player, but it was cut short by the controversial tragedy. His death has sparked discussions about safety protocols in school activities.
