DOJ evaluates homicide raps in Ateneo basketball players' deaths

MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Justice (DOJ) has received a supplemental referral from the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) recommending the filing of homicide cases in connection with the tragic deaths of two Ateneo basketball players.

In a statement Wednesday, DOJ Atty. Polo Martinez said the referral “will be treated as forming part of the CIDG’s original referral dated 26 June, which remains under evaluation by the Department.”

Martinez said the supplemental referral explicitly recommends prosecuting individuals involved for Homicide and/or Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Homicide, depending on how the evidence and applicable laws hold up during evaluation.

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The case initially landed on the DOJ’s desk on June 26, when the CIDG first recommended charges for violations under Republic Act No. 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Act.

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At that time, the DOJ noted that other offenses—including homicide or reckless imprudence—were already being considered if the evidence warranted them.

The July 1 supplemental referral solidifies the push for heavier, standalone homicide charges alongside the initial hazing complaints.

Due to the ongoing evaluation, the DOJ stated it cannot yet release specific details regarding the names of the suspects or the exact circumstances surrounding the players’ deaths.

However, the department emphasized its commitment to handling the high-profile case with urgency.

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“The DOJ assures the public that the matter will be evaluated expeditiously and objectively in accordance with the evidence, the law, and applicable procedure,” Martinez said. /apl

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