What began as a swimming activity turned into a tragedy after two Ateneo de Manila University men’s basketball players were swept away by strong currents in Dipaculao town, with police ruling out foul play in the incident that led to their deaths.
The Aurora Provincial Police Office on Tuesday said there was no indication that Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili died under suspicious circumstances, describing the case as an accidental drowning.
Aurora police chief Col. Percival Pineda said initial findings, based on statements from companions of the victims, show that the incident was unintentional.
“Based on the statements we got from their companions, this incident was really, purely an accident. It was a natural accident. It was not expected,” Pineda said in a press briefing.
“As of now, we do not see any foul play in this accident,” he added.
Police said the incident happened at around 2:40 p.m. on Monday while the two athletes were swimming in a coastal area of Dipaculao.
Dipaculao Municipal Police Station chief Maj. Eduardo Mendoza Jr. said the town’s disaster risk reduction and management office sought police assistance at around 3:15 p.m. after reports of drowning were received.
A statement from Police Regional Office 3 said the victims were swimming when they were suddenly carried by a strong current into deeper waters.
Pineda confirmed that both Baterbonia and Adili were swept away by the current and failed to make it back to shore.
Authorities expressed condolences to the families and friends of the victims, calling the incident a tragedy for the province.
“The leadership of the Aurora Provincial Police Office is saddened by the tragedy that occurred in our province. Of course, we extend our condolences to the friends, associates and family of the players,” Pineda said.
Police said they are strengthening coordination with local government units, resort owners, rescue teams, and the Philippine Coast Guard to help improve safety measures in coastal areas.
Pineda also appealed to the public to avoid spreading misinformation while the families grieve.
The Ateneo de Manila University earlier extended condolences and support to the families of Baterbonia and Adili.
Baterbonia, 19, recently played in the Palarong Pambansa finals and had committed to the Blue Eagles program, while Adili, 21, a Nigerian student-athlete, competed in UAAP Season 88.
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