What happened in Dipaculao, Aurora was hazing – DILG Secretary Remulla
DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 26 June 2026) – The incident in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8, which led to the deaths of Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili, was hazing, according to the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG). The agency has recommended charges against Ateneo Blue Eagles head coach Tab Baldwin and 10 others for violating RA 11053, the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018.
Local Governments Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated in a press conference that the PNP-CIDG conducted interviews with 60 respondents over 320 hours, with 68 lawyers present. The investigation yielded over 620 pages of testimony, all pointing to extreme conditions that resulted in the deaths.
The CIDG’s recommendation will be reviewed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) for final determination. Evidence indicates the two players drowned during seawater training at around 2:30 p.m., during high tide when strong waves pulled them offshore.
Remulla quoted Baldwin as saying the Blue Eagle Band of Brothers (BEBOB) training was designed to “break down” players’ egos by pushing them to their limits. However, Remulla emphasized that the activity crossed into hazing, defined under RA 11053 as any act causing physical or psychological harm as a prerequisite for membership.
Assistant Secretary Brian Tomas outlined three key elements of hazing present in the case: suffering (evidenced by the deaths), a requirement for team membership, and deliberate intent to cause suffering. The CIDG found that the training was used to determine the final roster for the UAAP, with only 17 of 20 players making the cut.
Tomas noted that Baldwin admitted to scheduling the training during low tide but failed to account for high tide, which occurred at 2:27 p.m. on June 8—the exact time the fatal incident happened. Players were subjected to intense physical activities starting at 4 a.m., culminating in the seawater exercise that led to the drownings.
Remulla stressed that Baldwin was aware some players couldn’t swim yet still proceeded with the activity, instructing them on handling rip currents. This demonstrated prior knowledge of potential risks.
The 11 individuals recommended for charges include Baldwin, strength coaches, assistant coaches, student managers, a physical therapist, and utility staff. Under RA 11053, those found guilty of hazing resulting in death face reclusion perpetua (20-40 years) and a P3 million fine.
Remulla noted that Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) may face civil liabilities, though testimonies suggest the university was unaware of the activity beforehand. ADMU President Roberto Yap and athletics director Em Fernandez reportedly learned of the incident only after it occurred.
A past near-drowning incident during a similar training in 2016 or 2017 was also mentioned, though Baldwin claimed no recollection. The DOJ will further examine potential legal responsibilities under the principle of loco parentis. (Carolyn O. Arguillas / MindaNews)
