Baterbonia death raises concern on athlete protection gaps

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — The death of Agusan del Sur basketball standout Rene Clert Baterbonia has raised concerns over athlete protection in local sports development programs, particularly when athletes transition from local government unit (LGU)-supported initiatives to school or collegiate teams.

Baterbonia’s mother, Rovelyn, brought the issue after publicly claiming that their family was allegedly not properly informed by the Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) about the basketball team’s team-building activity that preceded her son’s death.

The issue has drawn wider attention after the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) issued a show-cause order to the AdMU in connection with the deaths of Baterbonia, 18, and fellow student-athlete Divine Adili.

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READ: Ateneo baller Baterbonia laid to rest in Agusan hometown

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Agusan del Sur Gov. Santiago Cane Jr. said that for athletes below 18 years old, a written and notarized agreement between parents and recruiting schools or organizations should be required, clearly outlining safety provisions, benefits, and emoluments.

In an online interview, he said he plans to consult members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on possible policies to strengthen athlete protection for its constituents.

Democrito “Boyet” Plaza III, brother of 2nd District Rep. Adolph Edward Plaza, also emphasized the importance of early sports development through structured grassroots programs such as inter-barangay leagues starting at age 10.

He cited the importance of parental involvement in training, citing Filipina tennis star Alex Eala, who began competitive training at age 12.

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For Elias Tabac of Bayugan City,  trainer of Caraga region athletes in the Palarong Pambansa 2026 who recently won gold at the Spartan Beast Race in Pattaya, Thailand, said LGU sports programs should maintain clear records of where athletes are assigned and ensure that local officials are properly informed to provide guidance.

Tabac stressed that commitments to athletes should be backed by formal agreements before they are fully absorbed into school or competitive programs, adding that no athlete should enter a program without a signed contract upon entry.

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He said such safeguards are necessary to ensure safety, accountability, and access to support such as free tuition, dormitory accommodation, meals, allowances, and medical care. /das

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