Jonvic Remulla says being active in Ateneo probe part of his job as DILG Sec, nothing to do with UP ties

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said his active role in the Philippine National Police's investigation into the deaths of Ateneo de Manila University student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili is simply part of his job, denying claims that his involvement might have to do with his ties with the University of the Philippines.

Remulla made the statement on Friday during a press briefing, where authorities presented possible cases that may be filed in connection with the Ateneo drowning incident.

READ MORE | Ateneo recruit Rene Baterbonia, foreign student athlete Divine Adili die in drowning incident

“Ako po ay isa sa mga alumni na tumutulong sa UP Men’s Basketball Team. Isa ‘yan sa mga na bahagi ako na organisasyon, pero as a sponsor,” Remulla said in response to a question about claims that his involvement may be influenced by the history between Ateneo and UP as competing basketball programs.

“Pagdating dito po, hindi ko po ginagawa to dahil ako’y taga-UP. Ginagawa ko po ito dahil ako’y kalihim ng Interior at Local government. It is part of my duty to make sure that justice is done. UP has nothing to do with this,” he said, adding that he also studied at Ateneo in high school and was part of De La Salle's educational system in grade school.

He also clarified that he was not team manager of UP, as stated in the question.

Remulla has been seen from time to time on the sidelines during UP men's basketball games.

On Friday, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group recommended the filing of complaints for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Act, against 11 individuals, including resigned former head coach Tab Baldwin, in connection with the deaths of the two Ateneo student-athletes.

—Justin Kenneth Carandang/JMB, GMA News