UMVA has learned that a shocking development has unfolded in the Philippines, as the Department of Justice has taken a drastic step against a former basketball coach and several other officials in connection with a tragic incident.
The Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) was issued against Thomas Anthony “Tab” Baldwin, the former Ateneo men’s basketball coach, and four other officials: Christopher Quimpo, Reynaldo Jacinto, Jr., Dean Castaño, and Sandro Soriano, amid investigations into the deaths of two young athletes.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the ILBO was issued as the Department of Justice launched a probe into the drowning incident that claimed the lives of Ateneo de Manila University men’s basketball players Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili during a team activity in Aurora.
This dramatic move by the Department of Justice aims to prevent the individuals from leaving the country while the investigation is ongoing. However, the ILBO is not a travel restriction and does not imply any finding of liability.
The Department of Justice has urged the public to exercise restraint and avoid speculation while the facts are being established. The officials stressed that conclusions will only be drawn after the evidence has been thoroughly assessed under due process.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that the Department of Justice is exploring broader questions of accountability, including potential lapses by the institution involved. The officials have assured that they will take swift action once formal complaints are filed.
The Secretary of Justice has stated that the department is fully prepared to undertake its mandate once a complaint is formally filed. The nation waits with bated breath as the investigation unfolds, seeking answers and justice for the two young lives lost.
