Story perspectives

Ateneo Star Drowns in Aurora Team-Building; Probe Begins

6/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Eighteen-year-old Ateneo player Rene Clert Baterbonia drowned during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, prompting an investigation.
Bishop Ruben Labajo said the teen’s death is a national loss that shows sport’s promise for advancement.
Baterbonia, a 2025 Palarong Pambansa MVP, hoped his basketball career would lift his family out of poverty.
His wake in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, will end June 23 with burial scheduled June 24, drawing many locals.

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Story summary

Eighteen-year-old Ateneo player Rene Clert Baterbonia drowned during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, prompting an investigation.
Bishop Ruben Labajo said the teen’s death is a national loss that shows sport’s promise for advancement.
Baterbonia, a 2025 Palarong Pambansa MVP, hoped his basketball career would lift his family out of poverty.
His wake in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, will end June 23 with burial scheduled June 24, drawing many locals.