Supporters of Ateneo basketball player Rene Baterbonia from across Mindanao gathered at the Talacogon Evacuation Center in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur for the final day of the wake for the student-athlete on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

Crowds began arriving early in the morning to pay their last respects to Baterbonia, the man dubbed “Mr. MVP of Mindanao.”

A supporter said she was moved to come after seeing posts about the wake on social media.

“Sakit kaayo akong dughan kay ang impact sa iyaha ambot ngano bisag dili ko kaila sa iya pero mohuot akong dughan mao na ni anhi gyud mi nagpasalamat ko sa among sakyanan nga gpa uban ko para makakita mi sa iyaha,” a supporter, Gelyn Genso, said.

The public viewing was suspended temporarily around 8 a.m. to allow for the reorganization of the venue and proper arrangement of Rene’s remains, as a large turnout of people is expected.

Meanwhile, one of the items drawing strong interest from fans is the “Bobet Merchandise,” which includes T-shirts printed with Rene’s photo and signed by his parents and siblings.

The merchandise is part of an ongoing fundraising effort for the bereaved family of Rene.

“Super special gyud kay wala mi nag-expect nga makaadto mi diri lugara. Si Rene ra gyud naka pa anhi namo diri,” another supporter, Mary Joy Tauto, said.

Baterbonia will be laid to rest morning on Thursday, June 24, at the New Cemetery in the town.

The six-hectare cemetery previously served as an archery field during the past Palarong Pambansa. He will be the first person to be buried in the new cemetery.

Public viewing is scheduled to be temporarily suspended at midnight to allow the family to have private time, as well as to prepare for his burial.