The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has ordered a swift and impartial investigation into the tragic deaths of Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.
Through its National Capital Region (NCR) office, the commission formally demanded a detailed report and explanation from the university administration on June 9 as part of its ongoing fact-finding mission.
In an official statement released Thursday, CHED expressed its deep condolences to the grieving families and stressed the urgency of a rigorous inquiry into the incident.
“The Commission on Higher Education deeply mourns the tragic deaths of Ateneo de Manila University student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili,” the agency noted. “This tragic incident demands a thorough, impartial, and immediate examination of all circumstances surrounding the deaths of these students.”
The regulatory body reminded all higher education institutions in the Philippines of their obligation to uphold strict safety protocols, warning that accountability will be enforced regardless of a university’s reputation.
“The Commission will pursue the truth without exception, ensure that accountability is imposed where warranted, and require corrective measures to prevent the recurrence of such tragedies,” CHED stated. “No institution, official, or individual responsible for student welfare is exempt from accountability.”
CHED is currently executing an administrative review and has sought additional documentation from ADMU to complete its assessment.
While Ateneo has already submitted an initial institutional response, regulators are evaluating whether the university’s measures comply with mandated safety policies.
To ensure broader systemic safety, CHED is also partnering with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) under a specialized Sports Stakeholders’ Panel. The joint initiative will conduct a comprehensive review of training policies and welfare standards for student-athletes nationwide.