Dimples Romana Named by Rovelyn Baterbonia for Rene Baterbonia Biopic
RENE BATERBONIA – More details have emerged about the proposed movie based on the life of young basketball player Rene Baterbonia, whose tragic death last June drew widespread public attention.
Rene and fellow student-athlete Divine Adili drowned during a training activity at a beach resort in Dipaculao, Aurora. The activity was organized by Ateneo de Manila University, where both were studying and playing basketball. Authorities later determined that the two deaths were accidental.
Despite the findings, Rene’s mother, Rovelyn Baterbonia, has continued to seek clearer answers surrounding the circumstances that led to her son’s death.
The tragedy eventually caught the attention of filmmaker and performer BB Gandanghari, who became interested in producing a film about Rene’s life. During her October 2, 2026 appearance on “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,” Rovelyn shared that the planned project is already moving closer to production.
According to Rovelyn, she has personally discussed the proposed film with BB, including details about Rene’s life and which experiences could potentially be included in the screenplay.
She also confirmed that BB’s brother, Senator Robin Padilla, had previously raised the possibility of making a movie about Rene. Robin reportedly mentioned the idea when he visited the young athlete’s wake in Quezon City.
“Sinabi niya sa akin, ‘Nanay, paano kaya kung gawan natin ng pelikula yung anak mo, papayag ka ba?'” Rovelyn recalled. “Sabi ko, ‘Opo naman, ano naman masama kung kunan mo ng pelikula?'”
Rovelyn later met BB, who she said is currently in Mindanao and has become involved in discussions concerning the planned production.
When Boy Abunda asked how she wanted Filipinos, particularly young people, to remember her son, Rovelyn emphasized Rene’s character and the positive example he could provide.
“Gusto kong makilala siya lalong-lalo na sa kabataan ngayon na tularan yung anak ko sa nakikita nila ngayon, para yung ibang bata din makita nila kung anong kabutihan binibigay sa’kin ng aking anak,” she answered.
Although casting discussions have reportedly not started, Rovelyn revealed that she would like actress Dimples Romana to portray her if given the opportunity.
Rovelyn also addressed accusations that she was profiting from Rene’s death, saying she never demanded money from anyone. She explained that selling Rene’s memorabilia was actually his idea because people frequently asked him for his jerseys.
She likewise denied requesting a P25,000 talent fee, or any payment, for speaking at school forums.
Meanwhile, Rovelyn confirmed that a P30 entrance fee is now being collected at Rene’s mini-museum in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur to help cover maintenance expenses.
READ ALSO: Child w/ Meningitis Reportedly Able to Walk Again Because of Rene Baterbonia