The remains of Ateneo de Manila University basketball player Divine Adili will be repatriated to Nigeria, where he will be laid to rest in accordance with his family’s wishes, the university announced Saturday.
Adili, 21, was one of two Ateneo Blue Eagles who died in a drowning incident during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora earlier this month.
“As part of the University’s continuing commitment to Divine Adili and his family, preparations are underway for the repatriation of Divine’s remains to Nigeria, where he will be laid to rest in accordance with his family’s wishes,” Ateneo said.
The university said two representatives will accompany Adili on his journey home, including Fr. Munching de Guzman, SJ, who has begun completing travel requirements, including vaccinations and medications required for entry into Nigeria.
“While documentary and travel arrangements are still being finalized in coordination with Divine’s family and the relevant authorities, preparations continue to ensure that Divine’s return home is carried out with dignity, care, and respect,” Ateneo said.
The university also asked members of the Ateneo community to continue praying for Adili and his family.
Adili and fellow Blue Eagle Rene Baterbonia, 18, died after being swept into deeper waters by strong waves while swimming off Aurora’s coast. Teammates said the group was initially in shallow waters before conditions changed.
The incident prompted significant changes within the university’s basketball program. Head coach Tab Baldwin and team manager Epok Quimpo resigned from their posts, while the University Athletic Association of the Philippines barred coaching staff members who were present during the activity from participating in UAAP-related events pending ongoing investigations.
Meanwhile, Ateneo said Baterbonia’s remains have been returned to Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, ahead of his burial on June 24.
“Ateneo de Manila working closely with Ateneo de Davao, coordinated the arrangements for Bobet’s return home and continues to accompany the Baterbonia family during this time,” the university said.
The university added that discussions are ongoing regarding assistance for Baterbonia’s family, including possible educational support for his six siblings.
“Discussions are ongoing on the support that may be most helpful to the family, including educational assistance for Bobet’s six siblings, who are expected to relocate to Davao and enroll at Ateneo de Davao University under scholarship support,” Ateneo said.
