The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) has barred all members of the Ateneo de Manila University coaching staff who were present during the team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, where two men’s basketball players drowned earlier this month.
In a statement released Friday, the UAAP said the sanction takes effect immediately while investigations into the June 8 incident are ongoing.
“As such, they are prohibited from participating in any UAAP-related activities, in any capacity, effective immediately and while these investigations are being conducted,” the league said.
The UAAP described the move as a precautionary measure intended to protect the integrity of the inquiry.
“This preemptive measure, adopted even prior to the UAAP season, is intended to preserve the integrity of the ongoing inquiry and to ensure full transparency and due process as facts surrounding the incident are being carefully examined,” it added.
The incident claimed the lives of players Rene Baterbonia, 18, and Divine Adili, 21, after they were reportedly swept away by strong waves in the Pacific Ocean during the team-building activity.
The league did not identify the coaches covered by the ban. However, those reportedly present in Dipaculao were former head coach Tab Baldwin and assistant coaches Dean Castaño, Jon Jacinto, and Sandro Soriano.
Baldwin and team manager Epok Quimpo have since resigned from their posts.
The UAAP has given Ateneo until July 15 to complete its fact-finding investigation. A final decision on possible sanctions will be made after the university submits its findings.
“Amidst differing and clashing perceptions on this tragic incident, the UAAP, as a collegial body, is committed to adhere to its own governing rules and processes, where the acts of a member-university and personalities involved will be thoroughly evaluated by the other member schools before passing judgment,” the league said.
It added that accountability would be based on the results of a “thorough and impartial investigation” and that those found responsible “shall be held fully accountable under league regulations.”
Among the penalties being discussed is a possible one-season suspension across all sports, which could affect Ateneo’s title defenses in men’s swimming and collegiate badminton.
