MANILA, Philippines — Ateneo de Manila University said on Saturday that its appointment of Blue Eagles basketball interim coach Louie Alas and manager Nico Salva does not mean the institution is moving on from the Aurora team-building activity that claimed the lives of players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili last month.
Alas and Salva are taking over following the resignation of then-head coach Tab Baldwin and team manager Epok Quimpo.
"These appointments should not be understood as a signal that the University has moved on from the tragedy of losing Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili," wrote Ateneo in a statement.
"These reflect the University’s continuing duty of care to the student-athletes who continue to carry the emotional weight of this loss. Supporting them through this difficult period is an important part of the healing process for the rest of the team."
Reports said that the appointment of Alas and Salva was made so the basketball team could continue if the school participates in the upcoming Season 89 tournament around September or October.
The team has already cancelled its overseas training camps and local tournaments participation, with the focus of the Blue Eagles centered on getting back to top physical and mental form.
As for Ateneo, the institution cooperated with the Senate probe on the ill-fated team-building activity through its president Fr. Roberto Yap on July 9.
