Manila: Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) chief Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II has called on former Ateneo de Manila University men's basketball coach Thomas Anthony 'Tab' Baldwin to appear personally before investigators. This request is part of an ongoing investigation into the deaths of student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, which occurred in Aurora province.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a press briefing at Camp Crame, Morico revealed that subpoenas had been issued to Baldwin and other members of the Ateneo coaching staff. They have been directed to appear before the CIDG on either Thursday or Friday. "Man up. Be man enough to face the investigation in the interest of justice and equity para doon sa dalawang (for the two) players, whom you call your brothers," Morico urged.
The CIDG had previously subpoenaed Baldwin, along with members of the coaching staff and players who attended the event, as part of an investigation that is considering potential homicide or hazing charges. Despite this, Baldwin and at least three Ateneo officials did not appear in person before the CIDG on Monday, opting instead to send legal representatives.
"We are not denying the persons subpoenaed of the right to counsel or the right to be assisted by a counsel. They may assist their clients during the investigation, but to send merely their lawyers who are incompetent to provide accurate information precisely because they are absent in the area when the incident occurred will not help the resolution of this case," Morico emphasized. He added that this approach could result in injustice for the two deceased individuals, whose bodies have not yet been laid to rest.
Morico warned of possible contempt and obstruction of justice charges against those who do not comply with the subpoenas. Under Republic Act 10973, the Philippine National Police chief, CIDG director, and deputy director have the authority to issue subpoenas during investigations. Non-compliance may lead to an indirect contempt case before a Regional Trial Court.
Baldwin has also been instructed to produce aerial drone footage from the June 8 team-building activity at a resort in Dipaculao, where the two players tragically drowned. The CIDG chief clarified that the deaths are not being considered accidental.
"As far as CIDG is concerned, hindi ito aksidente (this is not an accident)," Morico stated. Based on testimonies from former and current Ateneo players, the activity was held approximately 700 meters away from the resort's designated area. Participants were reportedly aware of the strong sea currents before the activity, and the bodies of Baterbonia and Adili were found about 300 meters from the resort after being swept away.
The CIDG plans to interview and subpoena 48 individuals as part of the investigation, having already collected affidavits from 17 people. Psychological support is being offered to current players undergoing interviews, with psychologists and psychiatrists available at CIDG headquarters.
