SEN. Bong Go called for a thorough investigation into the deaths of Ateneo de Manila student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, noting the truth behind the June 8 tragedy should be established and safety regulations be strengthened through legislation.
“We want to know the truth — what really happened, and it should never happen again. That’s why we will make a law to prevent these incidents. Let’s work together to prevent these incidents from happening again,” Go said during the Senate Committee on Basic Education hearing.
The hearing, which focused on recent tragedies involving the youth, was chaired by Sen. Bam Aquino with Senate President Win Gatchalian in attendance.
On the drowning of Baterbonia and Adili under the watch of former Blue Eagles coach Tab Baldwin, the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group reported that three criminal complaints have been referred to the National Prosecution Office for evaluation and case buildup.
Go, head of the Senate Committees on Sports and on Youth, urged investigators to keep the victims’ families informed of developments.
“A life lost is a life lost forever. We can’t bring back the lives we lost. Nothing can replace the dreams, the opportunities, and the future that were lost,” he said.
Go renewed his call for the passage of Senate Bill (SB) 2261, which seeks to establish a comprehensive student-athlete safety and welfare policy.
Under the bill, the Philippine Sports Commission, in coordination with the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Health, and other concerned agencies, will create and implement a national student-athlete safety code.
It would require schools and sports organizations to conduct risk assessments, adopt written safety and emergency response plans, and ensure the presence of qualified emergency personnel during sports-related activities.
