MANILA, Philippines — Ateneo de Manila University basketball coach Tab Baldwin is expected to appear before the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Monday as separate investigations continue into the deaths of athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili during an off-campus team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the CIDG’s inquiry is intended to establish the facts surrounding the incident and is not aimed at immediately filing charges or making arrests.
DOLE TO VERIFY BALDWIN’S ALIEN EMPLOYMENT PERMIT
The labor department has also summoned Baldwin to present his Alien Employment Permit (AEP) and determine whether the conditions of his work authorization covered participation in an off-campus activity.
Acting Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino said investigators will examine whether Baldwin’s employment permit allowed him to conduct activities outside Ateneo’s campus, noting that the training took place in Aurora, which falls under Central Luzon.
SCHOOL OFFICIALS ALSO UNDER INVESTIGATION
DOLE said Ateneo representatives will also be required to explain their role in the incident, citing the school’s responsibility to ensure the safety and welfare of students under its supervision.
Tolentino pointed to Supreme Court rulings recognizing the special parental authority of educational institutions over students while they are under the school’s care.
AUTHORITIES ALSO LOOKING INTO POSSIBLE ANTI-HAZING LAW VIOLATIONS
Apart from possible labor law violations, investigators are also assessing whether the circumstances surrounding the physical training could fall under the Anti-Hazing Act.
Tolentino clarified that authorities have yet to reach any conclusions, emphasizing that everyone involved remains presumed innocent while investigations are ongoing.
ATENEO SAYS VICTIMS WERE SWEPT AWAY BY STRONG WAVES
In an earlier statement, Ateneo said no weights or heavy equipment were used during the shoreline exercise.
The university said Baterbonia and Adili were unexpectedly swept away by massive waves and a powerful rip current while participating in a knee-deep water exercise.
Tragedy during off-campus team-building activity
Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili died during an Ateneo team-building activity held in Dipaculao, Aurora, prompting separate investigations by law enforcement and labor authorities.
The incident has sparked questions over safety protocols, the legality of off-campus training activities, and the accountability of school officials and coaching staff.