MANILA, Philippines — Ateneo de Manila University President Fr. Roberto Yap on Thursday said the university will continue cooperating with authorities after the Philippine National Police recommended the filing of criminal charges over the drowning deaths of two student-athletes during a team-building activity.
In a statement, Yap said the university had been informed of the recommendation to file charges, which include homicide and reckless imprudence cases against former men’s basketball head coach Tab Baldwin and eight others.
“The University respects the legal process and will continue to cooperate with the authorities,” Yap said.
He added that Ateneo would provide assistance and support to those named in the complaint as they exercise their legal rights and defend themselves during the proceedings.
Earlier, the PNP also recommended the filing of hazing charges against Baldwin and 10 members of the team’s coaching and support staff. Those named were Grant Dearns, Ceasar Elumba, Caesar Castaño, Sandro Soriano, Reynaldo Jacinto, Paolo Adevoso, Andrew Salud, John Eric Rueca, Aris Pronce and Joel Rapa.
Yap also appealed to the Ateneo community to allow the legal process to proceed without speculation or public judgment.
“Our justice system demands that facts be tested, evidence be weighed fairly, and the rights of all parties be respected,” he said.
Student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili died on June 8 after drowning during a team-building activity at a resort in Aurora.
