PNP orders full, transparent probe into Ateneo players’ drowning

PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has directed a comprehensive and independent investigation into the tragic drowning of Ateneo de Manila University student‑athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.

The directive ensures that the law enforcement agency will conduct its own fact‑finding review, separate from other inquiries, to determine exactly what happened and identify any person or party that may be held accountable. PNP Public Information Chief Col. Allen Rae Co emphasized that the leadership is committed to getting to the bottom of the incident.

“As to the negligence of anybody or liability of whoever, we will know that once the investigation is completed,” Co told reporters during a briefing at Camp Crame. He stressed that there will be no attempt to hide or obscure facts. “The Chief PNP has ordered a more thorough investigation. There will be no cover‑up. Everything will be transparent,” Co assured the public, noting that the findings will be based strictly on evidence and established procedures.

According to Aurora provincial police chief Col. Percival Pineda, the incident occurred around 2:40 p.m. last Monday. The group, including the two victims, was reportedly walking in waist‑deep waters roughly 300 meters from a beach resort in Dipaculao, Aurora. Suddenly, a strong current swept away Baterbonia, Adili, and two others. While the other two members of the group were pulled out and rescued immediately, the two athletes were recovered only after 30 to 40 minutes.

First aid was administered to Baterbonia and Adili right after they were found, and they were quickly transported to a nearby medical facility. Despite the immediate response and medical attention, both were eventually declared dead by attending physicians. The investigation will now look into whether safety measures were sufficient, if proper supervision was in place, and if any negligence contributed to the fatal outcome, with all details to be made public once the review is finished.