Sen. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito files Senate Bill No. 2269, titled the “Student-Athletes Comprehensive Protection Act of 2026,” to strengthen protections for student-athletes during and in preparation for competitions. The measure seeks to amend Republic Act No. 10676, the existing “Student-Athletes Protection Act.” Ejercito says the bill responds to the fatal drowning of Ateneo de Manila University men’s basketball players Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora earlier this month. Under the proposed law, safeguards would be expanded beyond competition proper to cover practices, training sessions, and other school-sanctioned activities, including preparation periods. The bill also adds explicit “rights of student-athletes” and defines the “duty of educational institutions” to ensure student-athletes’ safety and welfare. It further aims to establish legal responsibility for parties involved in student-athlete activities, including schools, coaches, and athletic associations, during relevant events and related activities.