Agusan del sur: Thousands of mourners filled the streets on Wednesday morning as Rene Clert "Bobet" Baterbonia was laid to rest at Talacogon Memorial Park in Agusan del Sur, marking a solemn farewell to the Ateneo de Manila University basketball rookie.

According to Philippines News Agency, Baterbonia, who joined the Blue Eagles men's team this year, drowned on June 8 during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora. Teammate Divine Adili also died in the incident. Top officials from the provincial government and Talacogon LGU joined the burial rites.

At a wake before the burial, Rovelyn Baterbonia, Rene's mother, expressed gratitude to the many individuals and relatives who stood by the family during their grief. "Your love, compassion, and solidarity have brought comfort and strength to our family as we mourn the loss of a beloved son whose life touched so many," Baterbonia said, according to the provincial government's information office.

The provincial government of Agusan del Sur, through Sangguniang Panlalawigan Resolution No. 369-26 approved June 16, posthumously conferred the Datu Lipus Makapandong Award on Baterbonia. The award was presented on June 17 by provincial officials led by Gov. Santiago Cane Jr. to Baterbonia's parents. "Though he may no longer be with us, Bobet's passion, excellence, and inspiring journey will forever live on in the hearts of Agsurnons and in generations of athletes who aspire to follow in his footsteps. His legacy is not only remembered-it is immortalized," the provincial government said.