DOJ Urged to Issue Lookout Bulletin on Tab Baldwin in Ongoing Investigation
Lawyers representing the family of late Ateneo de Manila University basketball player Rene Baterbonia are preparing to request an immigration lookout bulletin from the Department of Justice for head coach Tab Baldwin as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident that led to the deaths of Baterbonia and teammate Divine Adili.
The family’s legal counsel clarified that the request is not an accusation of liability but is intended to help ensure that the investigation proceeds smoothly. They emphasized that the measure is purely procedural and aimed at supporting a complete and uninterrupted inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The two student-athletes drowned during a team-building activity held off the coast of Dipaculao, Aurora. Their deaths have prompted widespread mourning, with teammates, officials, and members of the sports community expressing grief and support for the families. Ateneo Blue Eagles players attended Baterbonia’s wake, while representatives from government agencies and sports organizations extended condolences. His remains are scheduled to be brought home to Agusan del Sur.
In response to the incident, the Department of Justice has ordered the National Bureau of Investigation to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to determine whether charges may be filed. Authorities have stated that they are committed to fully establishing the facts and ensuring accountability where necessary.
Police investigators have so far found no signs of foul play, based on statements from lifeguards and emergency responders who assisted at the scene. They reported no visible injuries or unusual marks on the victim, according to initial medical and rescue assessments.
Authorities also noted that the team conducted their activity approximately 300 meters away from the shoreline, despite earlier advice from resort staff to remain in safer, shallow waters closer to the beach. Reports indicate that the team requested privacy during the activity and asked not to be disturbed, which limited external supervision at the time. Investigations remain ongoing as officials continue to gather evidence and testimonies to fully understand what led to the tragic outcome.
Related Post: Mother of Rene Baterbonia Breaks Silence After Son’s Tragic Drowning