Ateneo warns of legal action over 'hurtful, baseless, dangerous' rumors targeting Blue Eagles players

Ateneo de Manila University is prepared to take legal action if necessary against individuals responsible for spreading what it described as 'hurtful, baseless, and dangerous' rumors involving members of the Blue Eagles men's basketball team.

This followed the deaths of Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, who were both involved in a drowning incident during a team building activity two weeks ago in Dipaculao, Aurora.

Ateneo said not only have student-athletes been targeted but also their families and the broader university community, including students, faculty members, and employees. The university condemned the allegations as harmful and warned against the dangers of misinformation.

"As we continue to mourn the loss of Rene Clert "Bobet" Baterbonia and Divine Adili, we ask everyone to remain united in compassion, truthfulness, and mutual respect. At this difficult time, we must address a painful matter that continues to deeply affect members of our community," Ateneo said in a post.

"Amidst our shared grief, certain parties, both online and offline, have continued to spread hurtful, baseless, and dangerous rumors directed at our men's basketball team. These reckless actions are unjustly targeting our student-athletes, their families, and the broader Ateneo community-including our students, faculty, and employees."

In a previous interview on the Let’s Talk with Pia Hontiveros podcast, incoming rookie Kieffer Alas and third-year Sam Reyes opened up about receiving hate comments online with some netizens blaming them and their teammates for the deaths of Baterbonia and Adili.

Ateneo stressed that it stands behind its community members and will take appropriate measures to protect them.

"The University assures our student-athletes, athletics support staff, and their families that we will pursue all appropriate measures to protect and care for them," the University said.

"If necessary, the University will not hesitate to take legal action to ensure the safety and protection of our community members."

Ateneo also reiterated its commitment in providing support services to the team members, their families, and anyone in community who are being targeted online and offline.

"Furthermore, Ateneo will continue to provide support services for the team, their families, and anyone in our community who is being targeted. Our campus ministers and counselors remain fully available to provide genuine accompaniment and care for as long as it is needed," Ateneo said

"We appeal to everyone to keep conversations civil, grounded in facts, and deeply considerate of the welfare of others. Directing hate and threats against anyone will not be tolerated, especially as we work together to heal from this tragedy."

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA News