Ateneo players Rene Baterbonia, Divine Adili die from drowning

MANILA, Philippines – Ateneo announced devastating news on Monday, June 8, as it confirmed the deaths of basketball players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.

Ateneo said Baterbonia, 19, and Adili, 21, drowned Monday afternoon during the Blue Eagles’ team building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.

“The entire Ateneo community mourns the loss of Rene and Divine. The University extends its heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, teammates, coaches, and loved ones. We ask the community to keep them in their prayers during this most difficult time,” Ateneo said in a statement.

A standout for Ateneo de Davao, Baterbonia made a name for himself in the Palarong Pambansa as he led Davao Region to the gold medal on top of winning tournament MVP in the 2025 edition in Ilocos Norte. 

Baterbonia once again powered Davao Region to the final in his home province of Agusan del Sur this year, although they fell short of a second straight title after losing to Calabarzon last May 30.

The drowning incident came just less than a week since Baterbonia arrived in Manila last Thursday, June 4, as he moved to the Ateneo campus in Katipunan, Quezon City.

Baterbonia was expected to debut for the Blue Eagles in Season 89 later this year. 

Meanwhile, Adili — a Nigerian foreign student-athlete — already suited up for Ateneo in Season 88, putting up 8.4 points and 8.3 rebounds and helping the Blue Eagles finish sixth with a 6-8 record.

“The University is providing support to the families of Rene and Divine, as well as to their teammates and members of the Ateneo community affected by this tragedy,” the school said.

“We respectfully ask for privacy and space for all those grieving as they come to terms with this profound loss.” – Rappler.com