ATENEO de Manila University (ADMU) has officially accepted the resignation of Blue Eagles head coach Tab Baldwin, according to a formal announcement made by university president Fr. Roberto Yap.
The decision comes in the wake of the tragic deaths of student‑athletes Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili, who lost their lives during a team‑building activity held at a beach resort in Dipaculao, Aurora, earlier this month. The entire Ateneo community has been in deep mourning since the incident, which has also sparked official investigations into the circumstances and safety measures surrounding the event.
In his statement, Fr. Yap confirmed that Baldwin’s resignation has been received and acknowledged by the university administration, marking a significant change in the leadership of one of the country’s most prominent collegiate basketball programs.
While no further details were provided regarding the coach’s reasons for stepping down, the move follows growing public scrutiny and questions about how the activity was organized, supervised, and managed. The tragedy has prompted both the Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation to look into possible lapses, including issues of criminal negligence and failure to observe proper safety protocols.
Baldwin, a well‑known figure in Philippine basketball, has been at the helm of the Blue Eagles for several years, leading the team to numerous victories and championships. His departure now leaves a major void in the coaching staff, as the university navigates not only the loss of two promising young players but also the need to review and strengthen its policies for off‑campus events. Ateneo has expressed its commitment to cooperating fully with authorities and ensuring that all findings from the investigation are addressed to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the community continues to grieve, the university extended its gratitude to Baldwin for his contributions to the program while emphasizing that its primary focus remains on supporting the families of the victims and helping the student‑athletes and staff cope with the trauma. The resignation signals the beginning of a new chapter for the Blue Eagles, even as the institution works to restore confidence and reinforce its dedication to the safety and well‑being of every member of the Ateneo family.
