Instead of Gifts Rene Baterbonia’s Mom Asks Supporters for Prayers & Cash Aid
RENE BATERBONIA – As Rene Baterbonia’s 100th day of death approaches, his mother is making a heartfelt appeal to supporters, asking for prayers and cash aid instead of lechon and balloons.
Rovelyn Baterbonia, the mother of late Ateneo student-athlete Rene “Bobet” Baterbonia, has asked family, friends, and supporters to mark her son’s 100th day of death in a simple and prayerful manner instead of holding a celebration at his grave.
In a Facebook post, Rovelyn appealed to those planning to visit Rene’s resting place not to bring food, decorations, or other material offerings. She specifically said she did not want lechon, pizza, balloons, or gifts as part of the commemoration.
“Gusto ko lang simpling pagdasal,” she said, explaining that prayer is what she needs most at this difficult time. She also admitted that she continues to struggle with the loss of her son and would rather concentrate on seeking answers and pursuing his case.
“Hindi ko kailangan ng materyal na bagay kc gusto ko dasal,” Rovelyn said. “Hindi ko buna tanggapin yong mga ganyan Ngayon unahin ko Muna ang Kaso ng anak sana maintendihan nyo Ako.”
Instead of spending money on items for Rene’s 100th day, Rovelyn said supporters who want to extend assistance may send financial help directly to her. She provided GCash and GoTyme as possible channels for those who wish to contribute.
“Kung may mga konting tulong na ipapaabot nyo, kung pwedi dritso nyo na sa akin,” she said.
Rovelyn likewise requested donors to send her a screenshot of their transaction after transferring money. This, she explained, would allow her to properly verify the assistance sent to her.
Meanwhile, authorities have continued to discuss findings related to the death of the Ateneo student-athlete. According to the Aurora Provincial Police Office, a post-mortem examination certificate identified asphyxia by drowning as the cause of Rene’s death.
Authorities also said that the post-mortem examination report in police custody did not indicate the presence of bruises on Baterbonia’s body.
Police also cited statements from the resort’s lifeguard and personnel from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO). Based on these accounts, no weights or foreign objects were reportedly discovered attached to the victims’ remains.
As Rene’s family continues to seek clarity regarding the case, his mother is asking supporters to remember him through prayers and, for those who are able, financial assistance rather than material offerings.
READ ALSO: LGU Urges Public to Stop Exploiting Rene Baterbonia’s Death