STRONG currents swept Ateneo big men Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili from shore and into their deaths in a drowning tragedy that has stunned the basketball community.
The Police Regional Office 3 released an official statement on the circumstances that led to the death of the two young Blue Eagles, saying "the victims were swimming when they were reportedly carried by a strong current into deeper waters."
READ Ateneo players Rene Baterbonia, Divine Adili die in drowning incident
"Based on initial reports, personnel of the Dipaculao Municipal Police Station immediately responded upon receiving information regarding the incident and coordinated with concerned agencies to provide the necessary assistance," the statement read.
"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.
"The victims were promptly transported to a medical facility; however, they were later declared dead by the attending physician."
Ateneo coaches, players, and staff arrived in Aurora on Monday for a week-long team building activity - an annual exercise since coach Tab Baldwin took over the team reins - and were supposed to stay until Sunday.
The team has since cut its activity short following the tragedy and is on its way back to Manila, sources bared.
READ Baterbonia, Adili represented the future of Ateneo's frontline
The Aurora police also released a statement through acting Provincial Director PCOL Percival R. Pineda, extending their condolences to the families of the victims and warning about the dangers of swimming in the open sea.
"This heartbreaking incident serves as a solemn reminder that the sea can be unpredictable and that utmost caution and vigilance must always be observed during recreational and water-related activities.
"We assure the public that responding authorities immediately provided the necessary assistance and continue to coordinate with concerned agencies regarding the incident," said acting provincial director PCOL Percival R. Pineda.
It also echoed Ateneo's pleas for privacy to the families, stating: "Let us allow them the space, dignity, and peace they deserve during this difficult time. Human compassion and respect must prevail over the pursuit of online attention and engagement."
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