The Aurora police told the media on Tuesday that Ateneo basketball players Rene Baterbonia’s and Divine Adili’s deaths by drowning were an accident.

In a press conference, New Aurora Police Provincial Office (PPO) Director PCol. Percival Pineda told members of the press that the players were walking in thigh-deep water when they unknowingly stepped into a deeper part of the water and were pulled under by a current.

“Batay sa mga salaysay ng atin pong nakausap na kasama nila, ay mayroon po silang activity kung saan lumalakad po ‘yung mga players natin doon sa tabing-dagat, hanggang hita po ‘yung lalim ng tubig. Bigla nalang silang napunta sa malalim na parte. Doon po sa parte na nilalakaran nila ay ay isang malalim na lugar… bigla silang tinangay ng current papunta po sa mas malalim na lugar ng dagat,” he said.

Pineda said that while their companions and the lifeguard on duty tried to save the two, their attempts were futile.

He confirmed, when speaking to the private resort management, that they have two lifeguards on standby. Moreover, when the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) dialed the police at approximately 3:15 p.m., police promptly responded, he said, although the resort was a long distance from the station.

The police director said that, prior to this, the team had already held activities in the beach resort, which is why it was presumed they were aware of the beach layout.

He said the police are currently coordinating with the resort management to find out whether other such incidents have occurred in the area.

On Monday, June 8, Ateneo announced the deaths of Baterbonia, 19, and Adili, 21, who reportedly died during the Blue Eagles’ team building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.

“The entire Ateneo community mourns the loss of Rene and Divine. The University extends its heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, teammates, coaches, and loved ones. We ask the community to keep them in their prayers during this most difficult time,” Ateneo’s statement read.