The Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP CIDG) has secured sworn testimony from the mother of late Ateneo de Manila University student-athlete Rene Clert Baterbonia as part of an ongoing investigation into a fatal drowning incident. The CIDG is preparing to submit evidence, including approximately 1,200 pages of testimony, to the Department of Justice (DOJ) by Friday, June 26, 2026.
How the investigation is proceeding
Investigators from the PNP CIDG met with Mrs. Rovelyn Baterbonia in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, on Thursday, June 25, 2026. According to an official statement from the CIDG, the mother provided a sworn testimony assisted by her counsel, Atty. Kenneth D. Minglana. This statement is currently being consolidated with other evidence for the upcoming referral of criminal complaints to the DOJ. The agency has characterized the ongoing process as one requiring absolute thoroughness and urgency.
What the probe covers
The investigation centers on the deaths of Rene Clert Baterbonia and fellow athlete Divine Adili, who were swept away by large waves while participating in a training activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, earlier this month. The CIDG initiated the probe nearly two weeks after the event. According to the police, the inquiry explores potential homicide cases and possible violations of Republic Act No. 11053, also known as the Anti-Hazing Act. Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed that the investigation has involved interviews with nearly 100 individuals.
What may happen next
The submission of findings to the DOJ by June 26, 2026, marks the next phase in the legal process. Because the CIDG is integrating these testimonies into a formal referral, the DOJ may soon review the evidence to determine if criminal charges will be filed. While the CIDG has not specified which individuals might be named in these complaints, the focus on the Anti-Hazing Act and homicide suggests that investigators are looking into whether the training activity was conducted in violation of safety protocols or institutional rules. Future developments will depend on the DOJ’s evaluation of the 1,200 pages of testimony gathered from the Aurora training participants.
