Mindanao: The Department of Health (DOH): on Tuesday expressed its condolences to the families of two young athletes who recently died from drowning, as it renewed its call for a stronger community-wide culture of water safety across the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DOH extended its deepest sympathies to the families, friends, and teammates of Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili. Baterbonia and Adili, both men's basketball players of Ateneo, drowned on Monday during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora. "The unfortunate event calls attention to the fact that drowning remains a serious public health concern," the DOH said.

Citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the agency said drowning and submersion incidents remain among the leading causes of preventable injury-related deaths nationwide. The figures recorded 3,580 drowning fatalities in 2023, which slightly decreased to 3,017 deaths in 2024.

"Drowning can affect anyone, including children, adults, athletes, and experienced swimmers," it added. To prevent further loss of life, the DOH urged the public to "honor the memories of the young athletes by promoting water safety, active supervision of children, proper use of life jackets, safe behaviors around water, and lifesaving skills such as basic life support and hands-only CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation)."

"The DOH calls on families, schools, sports organizations, local governments, and communities to work together in promoting a culture of water safety and drowning prevention," it said.