MANILA, Philippines — The Ateneo de Manila University confirmed the death of two members of its men’s basketball team, Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.
Palarong Pambansa MVP Baterbonia, 19, and promising import Adili, 21, drowned during the team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.
"The entire Ateneo community mourns the loss of Rene and Divine," Ateneo said in a statement.
Baterbonia was dubbed the Davao Hero after Davao made history by earning its first-ever basketball title at the 2025 Palarong Pambansa, defeating Western Visayas.
He just moved to Manila after playing in the 2026 Palarong Pambansa in Agusan del Sur, training with the Blue Eagles.
The 6-foot-10 Adili, a promising Nigerian import, was known for his hustle play inside the paint, and played a year in Season 88, rebuilding Ateneo's team after a worst eighth place finish in Season 87.