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Ateneo de Manila University basketball player Chukwuemeka Divine Adili
UAAP
MANILA, Philippines — The family of Ateneo de Manila University basketball player Chukwuemeka Divine Adili has requested that an autopsy be conducted before his remains are repatriated to Nigeria, according to the Nigerian Embassy in Manila.
In a statement posted on Facebook on Wednesday, June 11, the embassy said it has been coordinating with Adili's family, Ateneo de Manila University, law enforcement agencies and other authorities following the drowning incident in Dipaculao, Aurora that claimed the lives of Adili, 21, and fellow Ateneo player Rene Clert Baterbonia, 19, on Monday.
"The family has requested that an autopsy be conducted before arrangements for the repatriation of Mr. Adili's remains to Nigeria are finalized," the embassy said, adding that it is providing all necessary consular assistance and support.
The embassy said Adili was among three student-athletes who were reportedly caught in a strong sea current during a team-building activity. While Adili and Baterbonia died, another student-athlete survived.
The development came as the Department of Justice directed the National Bureau of Investigation to conduct a parallel probe into the drowning incident.
The victims were participating in a team-building activity at the Hermanos Leisure Farm and Surf Camp in Barangay Lipit, Dipaculao.
Aurora police director Col. Percival Pineda said members of the Ateneo men's basketball team allegedly ignored warnings from the resort management regarding dangerous sea conditions.
Citing the sworn statement of the resort owner, Pineda said the team conducted activities about 300 meters away from the resort despite being advised to remain along the shoreline where a lifeguard was stationed.
"They asked not to be disturbed in their activity. When they left, that's when the incident happened," Pineda said.
Based on statements from the resort owner, lifeguard, coaching staff and personnel of the municipal disaster risk reduction and management office, Pineda said authorities have found no indication of foul play.
A certificate of post-mortem examination showed that Baterbonia died of asphyxia due to drowning. Police have yet to receive Adili's death certificate.
The Nigerian Embassy said Philippine authorities have begun investigating the incident and noted that it has not received any official information suggesting foul play.
"Nevertheless, the Mission fully supports all legitimate efforts aimed at establishing the facts and ensuring transparency in the investigative process," the embassy said.
The embassy also urged members of the Nigerian community in the Philippines to remain calm, avoid speculation and refrain from sharing unverified information on social media while investigations are ongoing.
"The Embassy remains committed to protecting the interests and welfare of Nigerian citizens in the Philippines and will continue to monitor developments closely," it said. — with a report from Bella Cariaso
