PNP eyes hazing raps in Ateneo players’ drowning

Rene Clert Baterbonia (left) and Divine Adili —RENE BATERBONIA’S FACEBOOK/UAAP

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. hinted at possible cases for violation of Republic Act No. 11053 or the Anti-Hazing Act in connection with the drowning of Ateneo de Manila men’s basketball team members, Rene Clert Baterbonia, 18, and Divine Adili, 21.

In an interview with reporters in Camp Crame on Thursday, Nartatez said the investigation being conducted by the PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) was about “80 percent” complete.

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Asked whether criminal charges would be filed once the investigation was over, Nartatez answered, “We are leading to that in the investigation. That’s what the CIDG director would also say. We can’t say yet with definite numbers who would be charged and for what case.”

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Pressed on whether the PNP was looking at hazing charges, he said, “There is a possibility that, probably, they can be indicted for violation of the Anti-Hazing Law.”

READ: CIDG: Ateneo drowning not an accident, took place 700 meters from resort

Based on accounts of the Ateneo players and coaches, the team was doing water exercises when they were swept away by strong sea currents in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8.

READ: 48 subpoenaed over Ateneo drowning

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In a podcast interview with journalist Pia Hontiveros aired last Tuesday, players Kieffer Alas and Sam Reyes denied the Dipaculao activity was an initiation rite.

CIDG director Maj. Gen. Robert Morico II previously said the definition of hazing under the law included “forced calisthenics [and] exposure to the weather.”

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Asked whether the PNP stood by the possible angle of hazing, Nartatez said, “That’s why we are investigating. Hazing does not necessarily involve physical contact. There’s [also] the emotional aspect.” /cb

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