Aurora Police Provincial Director Colonel Percival Pineda emphasized that the bodies of deceased Ateneo student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili were not immediately recovered after the incident.
This came as authorities confirmed that Baterbonia’s cause of death was asphyxia by drowning.
According to Pineda, based on the affidavits gathered by investigators, there is currently no indication of foul play in the incident.
He said statements from members of the coaching staff revealed that the athletes were walking in the sea as part of their training activity.
During the exercise, the athletes reportedly passed through an area with deeper waters, where they eventually submerged.
When the incident occurred, their teammates and companions immediately worked together in an attempt to rescue them.
Authorities said Baterbonia was located first, followed later by Adili.
Pineda added that, based on information from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), the search for the athletes lasted approximately 30 to 40 minutes before they were found.
Once their bodies were brought to shore, they were immediately rushed to a hospital.
Pineda also said that any determination of liability, if warranted, will be recommended once the investigation has been completed.
