Claudine Barretto Shares Why She Could Not Ignore Rene Baterbonia’s Tragic Passing
CLAUDINE BARRETTO – In a show of compassion and support, Claudine Barretto paid her respects to Rene Baterbonia and revealed a deeply personal motivation for being there.
Actress Claudine Barretto personally paid her respects at the wake of late Ateneo Blue Eagles player Rene Baterbonia, offering prayers and sympathy to the grieving family following the tragic passing of the young student-athlete.
Rene, 19, and fellow Ateneo player Divine Adili lost their lives in a drowning incident during a university team-building and training activity in Dipaculao, Aurora. The heartbreaking tragedy shocked many Filipinos and sparked an outpouring of support from various sectors, including the entertainment industry.
Accompanied by three companions, Claudine visited the funeral chapel to express her condolences and show support to Rene’s loved ones. As a mother herself, the actress shared that she could deeply relate to the pain being experienced by Rene’s mother, Rovelyn Baterbonia.
During a brief conversation with members of the media, Claudine admitted that the atmosphere inside the chapel was emotionally overwhelming.
“Very heavy. That’s all I can say,” Claudine expressed softly. “Nakikiramay tayo. Nakikiramay tayo sa pamilya,” Claudine told the media.
Beyond her desire to comfort a fellow parent mourning the loss of a child, Claudine also revealed another personal reason for visiting. According to the actress, she wanted to extend her support to Rovelyn, whom she described as one of her loyal supporters.
“Sinusuportahan natin ang mga Claudinian. She’s a Claudinian,” the actress explained warmly.
Following her attendance at the memorial mass held in Rene’s honor, Claudine quietly left the venue without drawing attention to herself, allowing the family to continue their private moments of remembrance.
Meanwhile, preparations are ongoing for Rene’s final journey home. After the funeral services, his remains are set to be transported to Davao City, where a public viewing will be held at the Christ the King Chapel located within the Ateneo de Davao Senior High School Bangkal Campus.
After the viewing in Davao, Rene will be brought to his hometown of Talacogon in Agusan del Sur, where family members, friends, and members of the community will have the opportunity to bid their final farewell to the promising young athlete.
READ ALSO: Why Robin Padilla’s Appearance at Rene Baterbonia’s Wake Went Viral