Loss of life (young life at that) brought about by avoidable circumstances that the victims were exposed to by authority figures that were supposed to care and nurture them - is a tragedy that requires accountability. No it won’t bring back Divine and Rene, but we cannot allow people in power to be protected when their authority and status were wielded to put young men in precarious situations that took their lives. There’s anecdotes on record of precedent, there’s a grieving mother asking for the most basic details amid official statements saying they are ‘working closely’ with the families.
Investigate this to the fullest. Basketball is by no means more important than protecting our young people, most especially those who come from backgrounds that force them and their families to look at a roster spot, game minutes, a coaching staff’s favor and approval - as tickets to a better life.
Pay close attention to who says what, if anything at all. If you’re not enraged by the avoidable accident that took the lives of two young men, if your instinct is to protect an institution’s reputation over condemning those responosible for two boys dying, if you would rather be silent because you’re worried about relationships or your place in the industry, then you’re part of the problem.
This was avoidable. This was negligent. It’s only basketball, ffs. There are people responsible. Hold them accountable.
still in dazed. still can’t function well. may rene and divine rest in peace.
may comfort, strength, and healing surround their families, friends, teammates, and all who loved them.
may clarity come in time regarding what happened.
Rene Baterbonia has officially landed at Ateneo de Manila!
Thank you so much to the Alpapara twins for picking up Rene at the airport, & Ian Espinosa for assisting him all the way to his dorm. Your support means a lot as he starts this new chapter of his journey.
- COACH JESS
HUNGRY TO MAKE THEIR MARK 🦅
Following their commendable UAAP Season 88 campaign, five Blue Eagles have been selected to be part of the initial training pool of the Alas Pilipinas Men.
Joined by Spiker’s Turf veterans and other collegiate standouts, Kennedy Batas, Jian Salarzon, Lorenzo Gutierrez, Brian Castro, and Rodge Alejos have begun daily training sessions under Italian head coach Angiolino Frigoni.
Shawn Tuano and Waki Espina are nominees for the Breakout Athlete of the Year of the 2026 Ateneo Athletes’ Night Awards (AANA)
The 3x3 Men’s Basketball Team is also nominated for the category of Breakout Team of the Year!
📸: Guidon Sports
ALAS BLUE EAGLES 🇵🇭🦅
Kennedy Batas, Jian Salarzon, Brian Castro, Lorenzo Gutierrez & Rodge Alejos join Alas Pilipinas training camp.
#UAAPSeason88#AlasPilipinas