Ateneo de Davao Grants Scholarships to Six Siblings of Rene Baterbonia
Ateneo de Davao University has announced that it will extend scholarship support to the six siblings of Rene Baterbonia, offering some comfort amid the tragedy that struck his family.
Rene, an 18-year-old student-athlete, passed away on June 8, 2026, during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora. He was among those who drowned in the incident, along with Nigerian basketball player Divine Adili.
The scholarship assistance was formally announced by the university president, Fr. Karel San Juan, following a memorial Mass held at the Christ the King Chapel of Ateneo de Davao University. The institution shared that one of Rene’s deepest aspirations was to support his family and provide better educational opportunities for his younger siblings. Through this initiative, the university aims to help fulfill the dream that motivated him throughout his academic journey.
The program will enable Rene’s six siblings to continue their studies in Davao, which the family considers more accessible and supportive due to its proximity to their relatives in Agusan del Sur. While other Ateneo institutions, including Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, also expressed willingness to assist, the family preferred Davao for practical and personal reasons.
University officials urged the community to continue offering prayers and support for Rene’s family, emphasizing the importance of honoring his memory by helping realize his aspirations for his loved ones. The announcement was met with strong applause from those present at the Mass, reflecting broad community solidarity with the bereaved family.
Meanwhile, the families of Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili have called for continued and sincere assistance following the incident. Through their legal counsel, they expressed the need for unconditional and fair support, emphasizing that any assistance should be provided with compassion, responsibility, and genuine concern for justice.
Related Post: Mother of Rene Baterbonia Breaks Silence After Son’s Tragic Drowning