AdDU Honors Late Basketball Star Rene Baterbonia in a Way That Will Last Forever
RENE BATERBONIA – Ateneo de Davao University has found a meaningful way to preserve the memory of late student-athlete Rene Baterbonia for generations to come.
The Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) Senior High School basketball court will be named in honor of the late athlete Rene Baterbonia as a tribute to his life, achievements, and lasting legacy within the university community.
This was confirmed by Fr. Karel San Juan during a memorial Mass held for Rene in Davao on Saturday, June 13. According to the priest, the basketball court will officially be called the “Rene Bobet Baterbonia Covered Court” (RBBCC).
The naming of the court serves as a meaningful way to commemorate Rene’s contributions as a student-athlete and to ensure that future generations of the AdDU community remember him. As part of the tribute, photographs of Rene playing basketball and wearing his jersey will be displayed around the facility.
“Pangalan niya pati yung kaniyang pictures. Bobet na naglalaro, Bobet na naka-uniform kasi si Bobet laging naka-PE uniform at jersey.
“Ilalagay namin ang photos ni Bobet do’n para forever naming maaalala si Bobet Baterbonia sa pamamagitan ng covered courts,” said Fr. Karel.
The memorial initiative is one of several efforts undertaken by the university to honor Rene’s memory. Earlier, Fr. Karel also announced that AdDU would provide scholarships to Rene’s six younger siblings.
The scholarship program fulfills one of Rene’s long-held dreams of helping his family achieve a better life and ensuring that his brothers and sisters would have access to quality education. The university’s support reflects its commitment to standing by Rene’s family during this difficult time.
Rene, a promising young basketball player, tragically died after drowning during a team-building activity organized by Ateneo de Manila University in Dipaculao, Aurora, on Monday, June 8.
Authorities conducted an initial investigation into the incident and reported that there was no indication of foul play. According to the findings, Rene’s death was the result of an accident.
Despite his untimely passing, Rene Baterbonia’s legacy will continue to inspire the Ateneo community. Through the Rene Bobet Baterbonia Covered Court and the scholarships granted to his siblings, his memory and aspirations will live on for years to come.
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