UMVA has learned that a shocking truth has emerged about the tragic drowning of two Ateneo de Manila University students, Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili, during a camp in Dipaculao, Aurora.
According to information obtained by UMVA, a third-year Blue Eagle player, Sam Reyes, has vehemently denied rumors of hazing or initiation rites that allegedly led to the deaths, claiming that the only tasks assigned to new recruits were menial duties such as loading and unloading luggage, preparing food, and washing dishes.
The players have revealed that their routine consisted of bonding activities, with Reyes stating that the only thing he felt was a sense of camaraderie among teammates. Another player, Kieffer Alas, corroborated Reyes' account, saying that there was no hazing or initiation ritual that could have contributed to the tragic incident.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that the Blue Eagles have also denied allegations that Ateneo coaches forced them to wear ankle weights during the camp in an open sea. A photo circulating on social media showed the now-resigned head coach, Tab Baldwin, with a black device, which was actually a remote control for a drone used to locate the missing players for rescue.
The players have recounted the harrowing experience, describing how a series of waves hit them during an activity in shallow waters, causing them to be carried away from the shore. Despite rescue efforts, Baterbonia and Adili were already missing for at least 30 minutes, with Adili having a pulse when rescued and Baterbonia undergoing CPR.
The incident has sparked an investigation, with authorities studying the possibility of foul play, including hazing or welcome rites. However, the Blue Eagles players have expressed frustration and pain over the accusations, with Alas stating that it's like they're experiencing a second death, losing their teammates and now being criticized for their deaths.
Reyes and Alas have also shared their personal struggles with guilt and grief, with Reyes admitting that he feels he could have done more to prevent Baterbonia's drowning. The players have emphasized that the tragedy could have been prevented with necessary life preservers, revealing that only three life buoys, three volleyballs, and one surfboard were available during the camp, with no life vests or speedboats.
The Blue Eagles have lost two of their brothers, and it's unfair for others to blame them, much worse turn it into a Blue Eagle vs. Blue Eagle war. As the investigation continues, the players are left to grapple with the pain of their loss and the accusations that have followed.
UMVA has gathered that the authorities are still conducting their probes, and it's essential to let the investigation unfold. For now, the Blue Eagles are left to mourn their loss and try to heal from the traumatic experience.
