Teammates, fans remember late Rene Baterbonia: 'Sobrang bait po'

Teammates and fans alike remembered the impact Rene Baterbonia made both on and off the court.

Baterbonia passed away on Monday during Ateneo de Manila University’s team-building activity in Aurora.

For his teammates, who fondly called him Kuya Bobet, Baterbonia was more than just a teammate — he was a role model.

“Super sakit po kasi si Bobet ‘yung nagtulong sa akin nung bago ako sa seniors,” Abram Amaneo said in JP Soriano’s report on 24 Oras.

“Hindi niya ako nile-left out like he always helps me sa practice. Super bait niya and friendly.”

Another teammate, Ronald Bufe, said he considered Baterbonia a brother.

“Every time na nagpa-practice po kami, meron siyang sinasabi sa amin na keep going lang po, huwag kayo mapagod mag-practice,” he said.

“Tinuturing ko na po siyang kuya eh. Gano’n lang po, sa isang iglap nawala po siya.”

A fan in Davao, meanwhile, said he was inspired by Baterbonia’s dedication to helping his family while excelling as an athlete.

“Doble kayod para sa pamilya niya. Kawawa pakinggan ‘yung nangyari sa kaniya, pero nakakabilib na athlete sa ginagawa niya para makatulong sa pamilya niya,” said Kane Limosnero, a fan of Baterbonia.

Members of the public flocked to Ateneo de Davao University, where Baterbonia’s wake will be held until Sunday.

—JKC, GMA News