Ateneo vows cooperation in student-athletes' drowning probe

MANILA, Philippines – Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) President Fr. Roberto Yap on Thursday said the university will continue cooperating with authorities and providing assistance to those involved in the recommended filing of charges over the drowning of two student-athletes.

This statement came after the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said that homicide and reckless imprudence cases are recommended against former men’s basketball team head coach Tab Baldwin and eight others. However, the PNP did not recommend the eight individuals.

READ: Ateneo drowning case: More raps recommended vs Baldwin, 8 others

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Yap said that the ADMU had been informed of the criminal charges recommendation.

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“The University respects the legal process and will continue to cooperate with the authorities,” Yap said in a statement.

“It will provide whatever assistance and support to these persons as they exercise their rights and defend themselves throughout the process,” Yap added.

The PNP earlier recommended hazing charges against Baldwin and 10 members of the coaching and support staff. The 10 others include Grant Dearns, Ceasar Elumba, Caesar Castaño, Sandro Soriano, Reynaldo Jacinto, Paolo Adevoso, Andrew Salud, John Eric Rueca, Aris Pronce, and Joel Rapa.

READ: Hazing raps pushed vs Ateneo ex-coach, staff

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Yap then asked the ADMU community to let the legal procedure “to proceed free from speculation, prejudice, or trial by publicity.”

“Our justice system demands that facts be tested, evidence be weighed fairly, and the rights of all parties be respected,” he expressed.

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Ateneo student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili died last June 8 after being drowned during a team building activity in a resort in Aurora.  /jpv

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