MANILA, Philippines — A candlelight service will be held on Saturday to honor Divine Adili, as the Ateneo community gathers in prayer and remembrance following his death.
The service, described by the university as similar to a Nigerian-style wake, comes after Adili and fellow player Rene Clert ‘Bobet’ Baterbonia died in a drowning incident in Aurora on Monday during a team-building activity involving the Ateneo Blue Eagles.
“Divine Adili’s journey brought him far from home, but along the way he found teammates, classmates, coaches, and friends who came to know and love him,” the university said in a statement.
“He made a lasting impact through the warmth of his presence, the friendships he formed, and the joy he brought to the communities he became part of. We remember Divine with affection and gratitude, and grieve with all those who loved him — in the Philippines, in Nigeria, and beyond.”
Adili’s remains were made available for viewing at the Immaculate Conception Chapel from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, with a Mass also scheduled in the evening.
His family has requested that his remains be repatriated to Nigeria and that an autopsy be conducted. Coordination for the transfer, with assistance from the Nigerian Embassy, is ongoing.
Meanwhile, Baterbonia’s remains arrived in Davao on Friday morning as preparations for his funeral continue.
The Ateneo community is expected to continue holding memorial activities in the coming days as it mourns the loss of the two student-athletes.
