Drowning Tragedy Claims Lives of Two Ateneo Basketball Players

Ateneo de Manila University confirmed that two members of its men’s basketball team—Rene Clert Baterbonia, 19, and Divine Adili, 21—died after a drowning incident on the afternoon of June 8, 2026 during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora. The university announced the tragedy, describing it as a sad loss for the Ateneo community. The university said it will work with the families to arrange wakes and funerals once details are finalized.

Ateneo athletes Rene Clert Baterbonia, Divine Adili pass awayAteneo’s Baterbonia, 19, and Adili, 21, pass away

Rene Clert Baterbonia (born May 8, 2007) was a sophomore forward for the Ateneo Men’s Basketball Team. Divine Adili (born April 14, 2005) played guard and contributed as a key bench player. Both were students and represented the university in intercollegiate competition. Baterbonia was noted for his defensive play and started regularly in the 2025-26 season, while Adili was recognized for his three-point shooting.

Ateneo athletes Rene Clert Baterbonia, Divine Adili pass away

• May 8, 2007 – Birth of Rene Baterbonia.

Ateneo’s Baterbonia, 19, and Adili, 21, pass away

• April 14, 2005 – Birth of Divine Adili.

Ateneo’s Baterbonia, 19, and Adili, 21, pass away

• June 8, 2026 – Drowning during team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora; university releases statement confirming deaths.

Ateneo’s Baterbonia, 19, and Adili, 21, pass away

The university expressed profound sadness, extending heartfelt condolences to families, friends, teammates, coaches and the broader community. It pledged support for bereaved families and the remaining team members, requested privacy, and said details of wake and funeral services will be released after consultation with families. The statement also noted that the university will coordinate with the families for funeral arrangements.

Ateneo’s Baterbonia, 19, and Adili, 21, pass away

• “It is with profound sadness that Ateneo de Manila University confirms the passing of two student-athletes of the Ateneo Men's Basketball Team, Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili, following a drowning incident that occurred during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, on the afternoon of June 8, 2026,” — Ateneo de Manila University, Official Statement

Ateneo athletes Rene Clert Baterbonia, Divine Adili pass away

• “The entire Ateneo community mourns the loss of Rene and Divine.” — Ateneo de Manila University, Official Statement

Ateneo athletes Rene Clert Baterbonia, Divine Adili pass away

• “The University extends its heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, teammates, coaches, and loved ones.” — Ateneo de Manila University, Official Statement

Ateneo athletes Rene Clert Baterbonia, Divine Adili pass away

• “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 de Manila University, Official Statement

Ateneo athletes Rene Clert Baterbonia, Divine Adili pass away

The university community entered a period of mourning; classes and athletic events were adjusted to support grieving students and staff. Counseling services were made available for teammates. The university will work with families to finalize funeral arrangements, and a memorial service is expected to be announced soon. The university urged the community to keep the families in prayers. No further details about the drowning have been released.

Ateneo’s Baterbonia, 19, and Adili, 21, pass away

No conflicting reports have emerged; the university’s account remains the sole source of information.

Ateneo’s Baterbonia, 19, and Adili, 21, pass away