Ateneo Mourns Two Players After Drowning Incident

The Ateneo drowning incident in Aurora has left the Philippine sports community in mourning after two members of the Ateneo men’s basketball team passed away on Monday, June 8, 2026.

The victims were identified as incoming Ateneo rookie Rene Clert Baterbonia and foreign student-athlete Divine Adili. Both were involved in a drowning incident during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.

Ateneo Drowning Incident Claims Two Student-Athletes

According to GMA News, Baterbonia and Adili died in the incident on June 8, with the university confirming the heartbreaking news.

Tiebreaker Times also reported that Baterbonia was 19 years old, while Adili was 21. Ateneo expressed deep grief over the loss, describing it as a painful moment for the entire community. Tiebreaker Times

Remembering Baterbonia and Adili

Baterbonia was an incoming rookie who had recently committed to Ateneo after making a name in high school basketball. Adili was part of the Blue Eagles program as a foreign student-athlete.

Their passing is a major loss not only for Ateneo but also for the wider basketball community that followed their young careers.

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Community Offers Prayers

Following the announcement, messages of grief and sympathy poured in from fans, sports pages, and members of the basketball community.

As Ateneo mourns, the focus remains on honoring the memory of the two student-athletes and supporting their families, teammates, and friends during this difficult time.

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The Ateneo drowning incident is a heartbreaking reminder of how sudden tragedy can affect an entire community.