Philippine authorities are investigating the deaths of Ateneo de Manila University men’s basketball players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, with inquiries now focusing on possible homicide and possible violations of the Anti-Hazing Act. The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) says its investigation is being turned, depending on interviews and findings, into either a possible homicide probe or a hazing investigation. CIDG officials also publicly urge Ateneo head coach Tab Baldwin to cooperate with the process while maintaining that the incident is not being treated as an accident.
Separately, the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. says there could be criminal liability under Republic Act No. 11053, the Anti-Hazing Act. He also indicates the PNP-CIDG investigation is about 80 percent complete and suggests that charges may be filed based on results. Nartatez further says that 10 or 11 Ateneo personnel may be considered for complaints, although any filing would depend on the investigation’s conclusions and the prosecution’s assessment.
