Senate Committee on Sports Chairman Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has formally filed on Monday a resolution calling for an investigation into the tragic deaths of Ateneo de Manila University student-athletes Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.
The resolution cited the 1987 Philippine Constitution, which recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation-building and mandates the State to promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being.
Go stressed the need to examine existing safety protocols governing sports training and team-building activities involving student-athletes.
“Training camps and team-building activities are essential components of sports development. However, we must ensure that adequate safety standards and emergency response mechanisms are in place to protect our student-athletes,” Go said.
The senator emphasized that the Senate inquiry aims not only to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy but also to identify policy gaps and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“We owe it to our young athletes and their families to make sure that every possible safeguard is established. This investigation will help us determine what improvements are needed to better protect student-athletes across the country,” he added.
Apart from the resolution, Go also filed a proposed measure aimed at strengthening the protection and welfare of student-athletes, including provisions on safety protocols, risk management, and emergency preparedness during sports-related activities.
“The welfare of our student-athletes must always come first. We need stronger policies that will ensure their safety while they pursue excellence in sports and academics,” Go said.
The resolution likewise conveys the Senate’s condolences to the bereaved families of Baterbonia and Adili.
Last weekend, Go personally visited and extended his sympathies to the family of Baterbonia.
During the visit, he also shared details of the resolution and the proposed legislation he had filed in response to the tragedy.
“As we mourn the loss of Rene and Divine, we stand with their families in seeking answers, accountability, and meaningful reforms that will help prevent future tragedies,” Go said.
