DILG's Remulla cites inconsistencies in statements of Ateneo players, coaches

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Friday said investigators have noted inconsistencies in the statements given by players and coaching staff of the Ateneo Men’s Basketball Team in connection with the ongoing investigation into the death of its two athletes.

In a Super Radyo DZBB report by Glen Juego, Remulla did not disclose the specific discrepancies found by investigators but said the differing accounts may be explained by the fact that the players and coaches had different vantage points during the incident.

According to Remulla, the players were in the water while the coaches were onshore, which may have influenced how they witnessed and later recounted the events.

The DILG chief also reiterated that Ateneo head coach Tab Baldwin plays a significant role in the investigation, saying that many of the decisions made during the training camp were under his authority.

When asked whether authorities had already identified any clear violations committed by the coaching staff, Remulla declined to comment and said the public should wait for the investigators’ full report.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Earlier, Ateneo de Manila University students called on the university administration for accountability, transparency, and justice following the deaths of basketball players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.

The two players died in a drowning incident during a team-building activity in Aurora on June 8. —Sherylin Untalan/LDF, GMA News