The Ateneo Blue Eagles have officially pulled out of the 19th FilOil EcoOil Preseason Cup after two student-athletes tragically drowned during a recent team-building activity in Aurora province.
The tournament’s executive committee confirmed the withdrawal on Monday, following formal notification from Ateneo de Manila University’s athletic department.
In a statement, the league organizers expressed deep empathy and backed the university’s choice to withdraw from the competition.
“Upon continuous discussions and as confirmed with the University’s athletic director Mr. Emmanuel Fernandez, it was deemed appropriate to grant their request out of compassion following the tragic incident,” the league stated.
The organizers added that they stand in solidarity with the grieving families and the entire Ateneo community “as we navigate these tough times.”
The exit from the preseason tournament coincides with major leadership changes within the basketball program. Ateneo President Fr. Roberto Yap, SJ, announced during a Monday press conference that the university has accepted the resignations of head coach Tab Baldwin and team manager Christopher “Epok” Quimpo.
The administrative changes come in the wake of the June 8 accident that resulted in the deaths of student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.
As the university and local authorities look into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) announced it will hold off on further action until formal findings are released.
The collegiate league is awaiting the results of independent investigations currently being spearheaded by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG), and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).