 |
| PNP Central Luzon said Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili's passing was due to the strong currents near the Dipaculao shore. FilOil EcoOil Sports (file photo) |
MANILA—The Philippine National Police's Central Luzon bureau said that huge Pacific Ocean waves near the coastline of Dipaculao, Aurora factored in the drowning incident that led to the death of Ateneo players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.
The regional PNP office said in a statement that both Baterbonia and Adili were swimming when strong currents drifted them away from the sands.
"While the investigation remains ongoing, initial findings indicate that the victims were swimming when they were reportedly carried by a strong current into deeper waters," PNP Central Luzon said on Monday night.
The regional office also said that the Dipaculao police quickly responded during the incident and helped in bringing both Baterbonia and Adili to the nearest medical facility.
The statement came amid the resurfacing of podcasts that featured former Blue Eagles recounting their stories of the now infamous preseason training camp that included some swim training, leading to fans panning the decision to add swimming to the drills, considering that some players do not know how to swim at all.
However, the PNP called on the fans to stop making conjectures regarding the incident.
"We respectfully ask the public to refrain from speculation and allow the authorities to complete the investigation," the police force further said, also calling on tourists to take extra caution whenever they swim in the sea.
Meanwhile, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has extended its hand to Ateneo regarding the help the school and the basketball team need amid the tragic passing of Baterbonia, a former Palarong Pambansa MVP, and Adili, also a high school champion.
"As the national sports association for basketball, the SBP has been in communication with the university's basketball officials to determine what assistance may be needed, with particular attention given to those most affected by the tragic incident," the SBP said in a statement.
.jpg)
