The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the ongoing investigation into the drowning of two Ateneo de Manila University student-athletes in Aurora is crucial in setting stronger safety standards to prevent similar incidents.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said investigators are looking into possible violations of the Anti-Hazing Law in connection with the deaths of Blue Eagles players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, who drowned during a training activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8.
The probe, aligned with directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. through Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, is being pursued to ensure accountability while maintaining a thorough and impartial investigation.
“We owe it to the grieving families… to complete a full and impartial investigation before drawing any conclusion,” Nartatez said, warning that rushing the process could miss key facts on whether the incident involved negligence, accident, or a legal violation.
The PNP-CIDG said its investigation is about 80% complete, with at least 48 individuals subpoenaed. Additional witnesses are set to appear on June 19 and June 22, with a full report expected to be submitted to the Department of Justice next week.
Nartatez said the investigation remains open to all angles, including whether the activity falls under the Anti-Hazing Law, noting that hazing may also include exposure to dangerous conditions or psychological pressure.
Authorities are also examining possible lapses in supervision and accountability as the case build-up nears completion.