Adili remains finally arrive in Nigeria

The remains of Ateneo de Manila University big man Divine Adili have finally returned to his hometown in Lagos, Nigeria on Thursday.

Adili’s family received his remains upon arrival with Fr. Sigmund “Munching” de Guzman accompanied him from Manila after departing last Monday.

Adili and Rene Clert Baterbonia tragically passed away in a drowning incident during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on 8 June.

“We are grateful to share that Divine Adili has safely returned home to Nigeria, where he was received by his family upon his arrival in Lagos,” Ateneo said in a statement.

“Our university representative, Fr. Sigmund ‘Munching’ de Guzman, SJ, accompanied Divine throughout his journey home and later traveled to be with the Adili family as they received their son. Divine’s parents expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Ateneo community and to all who helped bring him home with dignity and care.”

Ateneo also thanked the Nigerian Embassy in Manila for helping ensure that the proceedings went smoothly.

“We also extend our sincere thanks to the Nigerian Embassy in Manila, whose consul provided invaluable support throughout Divine’s repatriation, helping ensure his safe and dignified journey home,” Ateneo said.

“As we continue to mourn the loss of Divine and Rene Clert ‘Bobet’ Baterbonia, we remain united in prayer for their families, teammates, and all who loved them.”

Baterbonia’s remains were buried last Wednesday in his hometown of Talacogon, Agusan del Sur as family and friends paid their last respects before he was laid to rest.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group of the Philippine National Police is already applying finishing touches on its inquiry following a two-week investigation that saw Ateneo head coach Tab Baldwin and the Blue Eagles issuing their respective statements on what really happened during that tragic team-building event.

In a previous statement, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla stressed that they will be filing criminal complaint before the Department of Justice on Friday while the University Athletic Association of the Philippines wants to see the findings of the school’s parallel inquiry before making any decision.

In the meantime, the UAAP banned Baldwin and other coaches who were with Adili and Baterbonia during the ill-fated boot camp.