Former MVP Benjie Paras Speaks Out on Ateneo Athletes’ Deaths
BENJIE PARAS – The former basketball star believes that the tragic deaths of Ateneo student-athletes Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili were the result of an accident rather than hazing. The two drowned during a training activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, on June 8, an incident that has sparked public discussion and ongoing investigations.
Speaking in an interview, Paras explained that the type of training conducted under Ateneo coach Tab Baldwin has been practiced for many years and has long been part of the team’s program. According to him, this was the first time such a serious tragedy had occurred.
He described the training as physically demanding, emphasizing that basketball is a tough and highly competitive sport that requires players to develop both mental and physical strength. He said athletes are often pushed beyond their comfort zones to prepare them for the challenges they may face during competition.
Paras also highlighted the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in sports. He explained that athletes rely on one another for support during difficult training sessions, helping build trust, resilience, and a strong sense of unity among teammates. He stressed that this kind of bond is common in competitive sports and should not automatically be associated with hazing.
When asked whether the incident could have been prevented, Paras acknowledged that certain safety measures might have reduced the risks. He noted that if the training had been conducted in a more controlled environment, such as a swimming pool, the chances of a tragedy occurring may have been lower. However, he pointed out that the activity took place in the open waters of the Pacific Ocean, where conditions can be far more unpredictable and dangerous than in a confined training facility.
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