Condensed Version:
Eighteen-year-old Rene Clert “Bobet” Baterbonia was expected to return home to Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. on June 16, 2026, but his funeral convoy arrived at the municipal gym at 1:40 a.m. the next day after an 18-hour journey from Davao City, including a five-hour stop in Panabo City.
Crowds gathered along the national highway, enduring extreme heat and heavy rain, chanting “MVP! MVP!” and “Hustisya! Hustisya!” as the convoy passed. The 246-kilometer trip, which normally takes five hours, became a historic procession as people of all ages paid tribute to Baterbonia, a beloved basketball player from Ateneo de Davao University who had recently been recruited by Ateneo de Manila University’s Blue Eagles.
His wake drew thousands in Davao City before his remains were transported home. The convoy was delayed by massive crowds in cities like Tagum and Trento, where residents waited for hours to honor him. Baterbonia’s mother, Rovelyn, expressed gratitude for the nationwide outpouring of support.
The wake will be held at the Talacogon municipal gym until June 23, with burial on June 24. Baterbonia, remembered as Talacogon’s pride, has become a symbol of resilience and justice for many. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)
