The father of Ateneo student-athlete Divine Adili is calling for justice following his son’s death in a drowning incident during a reported team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora province, earlier this month.

Elias Adili said his son’s death was caused by negligence and described the loss as devastating for their family. He said Divine “gave his all” in representing Nigeria in international competition and was a dedicated student-athlete who also played for Ateneo’s varsity program.

“He was among those who represented Nigeria in a 2024 international tournament in the Philippines, where their team performed strongly,” Elias Adili said, adding that his son was deeply committed to both academics and sports and that the family is “devastated” by his sudden passing.

Authorities are still looking into the circumstances surrounding the drowning, which occurred during what was described as a team-building event in Dipaculao, Aurora, a coastal municipality in northeastern Philippines.

Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University has announced plans for a wake and candlelight service for Adili beginning June 13.

The university further said it is coordinating with the student-athlete’s family as the community mourns his death.