MANILA, Philippines — Ateneo de Manila University has pledged full support to the families of student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili while announcing the creation of an independent fact-finding body to investigate the drowning incident on June 8.
In a media briefing on Monday, June 15, the University expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of the two basketball players and committed to uncovering the truth behind the tragedy.
“For full clarity, transparency, and justice, our Board of Trustees has formed an independent fact-finding body composed of external, highly competent legal and technical experts who will operate entirely outside Ateneo’s administrative structure,” University president Fr. Roberto Yap, S.J., said.
He added that the body’s findings and recommendations will be submitted directly to the Board, ensuring an investigation that is “exhaustive, unsparing, and free from any influence, whether internal or external.”
Ateneo also affirmed its full cooperation with ongoing probes by civil and regulatory authorities.
Alongside the investigation, the University vowed comprehensive assistance to the bereaved families.
“We recognize our duty to care for the grieving families of Rene and Divine. While no amount of material support can ever compensate for the loss of a son, Ateneo has offered full assistance to the Adili and Baterbonia families to help cover all financial, emotional, and long-term burdens arising from this tragedy,” Yap said.
“This is not a legal settlement. It is our moral obligation,” he emphasized.
