PNP says Ateneo group 300 meters from resort, ‘asked to be alone’

MANILA, Philippines — The group of Ateneo de Manila University basketball team members had gone about 300 meters away from the resort grounds and “asked to be alone” during the drowning that killed players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, police said.

During a press briefing in Camp Crame via teleconference on Wednesday, Aurora police chief Col. Percival Pineda said, “The place they went to walk by the coastline was far from the resort front, around 300 meters. But the resort owner said it was safe in front of them, and their lifeguard was there.”

“The team… asked not to be disturbed. The activity was closed,” he added.

READ: PNP: Ateneo’s Baterbonia died of ‘asphyxia by drowning’

Baterbonia, Adili, and their group were allegedly walking in waist-deep water parallel to the shore, about 300 meters from a beach resort in Dipaculao, Aurora, as part of a “training” activity at around 2:40 p.m. last Monday, Pineda said.

However, Baterbonia, Adili, and two others were reportedly swept away by a current.

According to Pineda, Baterbonia and Adili were found 30 to 40 minutes later, given first aid, brought to a medical facility, and later declared dead.

He noted that the resort management had adequate warning signs and safety measures in place for water activities in the area.

However, Pineda said, “Based on our conversation with the resort owner, the team’s activity was exclusive.”

“They did not coordinate with the local government unit regarding their training,” he added.

The Aurora police earlier ruled out foul play in the deaths of Baterbonia and Adili.

On Monday, Ateneo extended its condolences and support to the families of Baterbonia and Adili.

Baterbonia, 19, recently played in the Palarong Pambansa finals two weeks ago and had committed to the Blue Eagles program.

Adili, 21, a Nigerian student-athlete, played in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament last year. /mcm