Senator Camille Villar on Wednesday co-sponsored a Senate resolution honoring the life and legacy of basketball player Rene Clert “Bobet” Baterbonia, describing him as an inspiration whose story reflected the aspirations of many Filipinos striving to overcome poverty through hard work and integrity.
Villar joined the measure sponsored by Senator Robinhood Padilla, which seeks to recognize Baterbonia’s contributions and commemorate his life.
In her speech, Villar said Baterbonia’s journey embodied the struggles and determination of many young Filipinos who dream of lifting their families out of poverty through perseverance and discipline.
“Ang kwento ni Bobet ay kwento ng maraming Pilipino—isang batang nangarap na maiahon ang kanyang pamilya sa kahirapan. Isang batang naniwalang sa sipag, tiyaga, disiplina, at malinis na paraan, maaaring mabago ang iyong kinabukasan,” she said.
Speaking as a mother, Villar said she was deeply moved by Baterbonia’s story, noting that he proved success is defined not by one’s background but by values, sacrifices, and determination.
She described his death as not only a personal tragedy but also the loss of a life that inspired others.
“It is more than a loss of life but a true disappointment because it was an inspiring life but shortened,” Villar said.
She also stressed the importance of equal justice, saying every Filipino deserves fairness regardless of social status.
“Para sa akin po, ang isang tunay na malaya at makatarungang lipunan, walang mayaman, walang mahirap. Walang makapangyarihan, walang mahina. Lahat ay pantay sa harap ng batas,” she said.
Villar added that justice for Baterbonia represents justice for every Filipino who believes honesty, hard work, and discipline should be rewarded rather than become a disadvantage.
“Justice for Bobet is justice for every Filipino who believes that doing what is right should never become a disadvantage. It is justice for every child who dreams of lifting their family out of poverty. It is justice for every young athlete who believes that talent, discipline, and hard work should define their future,” she said.
Photo courtesy of Camille Villar / Facebook
The senator also paid tribute to Baterbonia as a son, brother, friend, and athlete, saying his life continues to inspire Filipinos, particularly the youth.
Addressing his parents, Rene and Rovelyn Baterbonia, Villar commended them for raising “a fine son” and thanked them for the values they instilled in him.
“Bobet, kung nasaan ka man, maraming salamat sa lahat ng ginawa mo sa larangan ng basketball, para sa iyong pamilya at para sa iyong kapwa at komunidad. Isa kang tunay na inspirasyon sa mga kabataan at sa lahat ng mga Pilipino,” she said.
She assured the Baterbonia family that his legacy and the dreams he left behind would not be forgotten.
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