Ateneo de Manila University has assured support to its student managers and utility staff who were included in the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group's (CIDG) list of recommended respondents in connection with the deaths of student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.
Student managers Paolo Adevoso and Andrew Salud, along with utility staff Aris Prince and Joel Rapa, were among those named in the CIDG's list released on Friday, June 26.
The four were recommended for the filing of complaints for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018, alongside Blue Eagles head coach Tab Baldwin and other members of the coaching staff.
In a statement on Friday night, Ateneo said it has reached out to the affected student managers and utility staff, as well as their families, following their inclusion in the CIDG's recommendations.
"Recognizing the unique circumstances and needs of those affected, the University has reached out to them and their families to offer appropriate support and accompaniment throughout the legal process, while respecting that each respondent's rights and interests must be represented independently," the university said.
"Our foremost concern is the welfare of our students and staff, and the assurance that each of them receives the support, fairness, and due process they deserve," it added.
The university emphasized that while it is extending assistance to those involved, it also recognizes the importance of ensuring that each respondent is afforded independent legal representation and due process as the case proceeds.
Earlier, Ateneo said it acknowledged the "CIDG's recommendation and respect the work it has undertaken in the course of its investigation."
The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Friday confirmed that it has received the CIDG's referral.
