CHEd’s probe to ‘pursue the truth’ on Ateneo student-athletes’ deaths

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) ordered a swift, impartial investigation into the deaths of Ateneo de Manila University student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, saying it will “pursue the truth without exception.”

“This tragic incident demands a thorough, impartial, and immediate examination of all circumstances surrounding the deaths of these students,” said CHEd in a statement on Wednesday.

“The Commission will pursue the truth without exception, ensure that accountability is imposed where warranted, and require corrective measures to prevent the recurrence of such tragedies,” CHEd added.

READ: DOJ directs NBI to find liability in drowning of 2 ADMU student-athletes

In line with its mandate to oversee higher education institutions and protect student welfare, the Commission has launched immediate fact-finding and accountability measures, requiring reports and explanations to establish responsibility and ensure compliance with policies and standards.

On June 9, CHEd-NCR directed Ateneo de Manila University to submit a detailed incident report and convened a meeting with university officials.

READ: Ateneo cagers’ drowning called ‘an accident,’ but execs to discuss case

According to the university’s Crisis Management Team, the drowning incident took place on June 8 during an off-season team-building and training camp attended by 24 student-athletes and seven adult supervisors, including coaches and staff from the ADMU Men’s Basketball Team.

During the meeting, the university presented its initial response, while CHEd outlined the process for administrative review and instructed the submission of additional documentation needed for a thorough evaluation of the case.

In parallel, CHED took part in the Sports Stakeholders’ Panel organized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

Under Section 5 of Republic Act No. 6847, CHEd is required to work with the PSC in developing and implementing school sports programs.

This collaborative effort seeks to ensure a full review of policies governing athletic training, team activities, and the welfare of student-athletes.

“The safety and welfare of students must never be compromised,” said the CHEd. “No institution, official, or individual responsible for student welfare is exempt from accountability.”

The Commission also extends heartfelt sympathies to the Baterbonia and Adili’s families, friends, teammates, as well as the entire Ateneo community as they endure this deeply painful loss.

On its part, the Department of Justice said it has tasked the National Bureau of Investigation with forming a special team to investigate the incident and vowed that the inquiry would be thorough, comprehensive, and impartial. /cb