Investigators are examining the drowning deaths of Ateneo de Manila University men’s basketball players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, with police looking into possible homicide and possible hazing-related violations. The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) says its inquiry is now focused on whether the deaths involve criminal liability under homicide charges or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018, depending on what interviews and evidence yield. CIDG officials also call for cooperation from Ateneo head coach Tab Baldwin, with the CIDG chief saying the deaths are not being treated as an accident and urging Baldwin to face the probe.
Police statements indicate that the investigation has led to recommendations for charges. The Philippine National Police confirmed that additional cases were recommended against Baldwin and several others, including homicide and reckless imprudence charges. The PNP chief has also said that around 10 to 11 Ateneo personnel could be implicated depending on the outcome of the investigation and what the prosecution eventually files.
However, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) maintains that there is no reason to charge other student-athletes present at the Aurora training activity, after previously recommending charges for violations linked to Baldwin and some staff. Authorities note that decisions on filing charges ultimately rest with the prosecution.
