TALACOGON, Philippines — Local authorities prepared security and crowd-control measures for the funeral of Ateneo de Manila University student-athlete Rene Clert “Bobet” Baterbonia, with officials expecting a large turnout of mourners for the burial in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Municipal officials said preparations were coordinated with local agencies to help manage visitors, traffic and public safety during the funeral.
Baterbonia’s remains were brought back to his hometown after a wake period that included tributes from the Ateneo community and supporters. Ateneo de Manila University said it coordinated with Ateneo de Davao University and the Baterbonia family regarding arrangements for his return home.
The Talacogon municipal government said an inter-agency coordination meeting was held before the burial to organize security operations and prepare for the expected arrival of relatives, friends, athletes and other visitors. Officials did not disclose a final attendance estimate, and details of the full security deployment remained unclear.
Baterbonia, a member of the Ateneo men’s basketball program, died along with teammate Divine Adili after a drowning incident during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, on June 8, according to Ateneo de Manila University. The Philippine Sports Commission said it formed a multi-stakeholder panel involving sports organizations and government bodies to assist with efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and review athlete safety measures.
Authorities have continued examining the incident. The Philippine National Police and other agencies have been involved in the investigation, while officials have said conclusions would depend on the findings of the ongoing process.
Ateneo said it was supporting the affected families and community members following the deaths. The university previously stated that it was working with the families on arrangements and called for respect and privacy during the mourning period.
Residents and supporters gathered during the wake and the transfer of Baterbonia’s remains to Agusan del Sur to pay their respects. Local reports said community members, students, athletes and well-wishers attended events honoring the student-athlete before the burial.
On Wednesday, officials continued implementing the planned security arrangements for the funeral. Authorities said the focus remained on maintaining an orderly gathering as family members and members of the public attended the final rites.
