Divine Adili’s Father Encourages Team’s Continued Play
Divine Adili’s father, Elias Adili, has encouraged the Ateneo Blue Eagles to continue playing despite his family’s loss. According to an initial report by Delfin Dioquino of Rappler, Elias urged the university’s basketball program to move forward while investigations into the June 8 tragedy remain ongoing. His remarks came as public discussion continues regarding Ateneo’s participation in the upcoming UAAP season.
Elias Adili Encourages Ateneo to Continue Competing
Rather than calling for the basketball program to suspend its activities, Elias encouraged players to remain united. He said continuing to compete would honor the commitment shared by his son and his teammates. His comments were made during an interview discussing the aftermath of the tragedy.
Elias Shares Message for the Team
Image from: Manila Bulletin
Elias said:
“My message to Ateneo, they should not relent in what they intend to do. And to the teammates, they should continue to play.”
He also explained how following Ateneo basketball strengthened his connection with Divine during his collegiate career.
“I’m a fan of the Ateneo Blue Eagles. I’m a fan because of Divine. I have the opportunity of seeing their members, their team. They play with one spirit.”
The remarks reflected his continued support for the university’s basketball program despite his family’s loss.
Surviving Teammates Have Shared Similar Goals
Elias’ message aligns with statements previously made by Ateneo players Kieffer Alas and Sam Reyes. Both players have publicly expressed their intention to return to competition while honoring the memories of Divine Adili and Rene Baterbonia. Elias said he supports that decision.
Father Expresses Support for the Players
Elias said:
“I’m encouraging the teammates not to relent in their struggle. And I will be happy if they do.”
His comments were made as Ateneo players continue mourning the loss of their teammates while preparing for the future.
Elias Reflects on His Son’s Life
During the interview, Elias also spoke about the relationship he shared with Divine. He described his son as someone who openly communicated with family members and regularly shared his thoughts. The interview also reflected the family’s continuing grief following Divine’s death.
Father Shares Personal Memories
Elias said:
“He makes me understand his feelings… He makes me understand everything about him. I really miss him a lot. I miss seeing him. I miss him a lot in my life.”
His remarks focused on the personal relationship they shared beyond basketball.
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Government Investigations Remain Ongoing
Authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Divine Adili and Rene Baterbonia. Separate inquiries remain active through the National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippine National Police–Criminal Investigation and Detection Group. Officials have not released final findings regarding the June 8 incident.
Current Investigation Status
Authorities continue reviewing:
- Witness statements
- Training activity procedures
- Athlete safety protocols
- Organizational responsibilities
- Related evidence gathered during fact-finding efforts
Government agencies have emphasized that investigations remain ongoing.
Elias Urges Players to Honor Teammates and Keep Playing
Public discussion surrounding Ateneo’s upcoming UAAP campaign continues while official investigations remain active. Elias’ remarks added another perspective to those discussions by encouraging players to continue pursuing their basketball careers. His comments focused on supporting the team’s future while remembering Divine and Rene.
Program Continues Supporting Student-Athletes
Current developments include:
- Continued mourning within the basketball community
- Ongoing institutional reviews
- Active government investigations
- Preparations for future basketball activities
No official decision has indicated that Ateneo will withdraw from the upcoming UAAP season.
Industry Analysis: Father’s Message Adds Perspective During Ongoing Investigations
Elias Adili’s interview provided a firsthand perspective from a family directly affected by the tragedy. His remarks focused on supporting Ateneo’s players while investigations continue through the appropriate authorities. The interview also highlighted the personal loss experienced by Divine’s family alongside broader discussions surrounding collegiate athlete welfare.
Family Offers Encouragement Amid Grief
The interview introduced the perspective of Divine’s father during an ongoing period of public discussion. His comments encouraged teammates to continue pursuing the goals they shared with his son. Official investigations and institutional reviews continue independently of those personal remarks.
Source Note: This report is based on publicly available reporting by Rappler and statements made by Elias Adili during an interview. Information regarding the ongoing investigations, Ateneo’s basketball program, and related developments remains subject to updates from relevant authorities and institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Divine Adili’s father tell Ateneo?
Elias Adili encouraged Ateneo’s basketball team to continue playing and pursuing its goals despite the tragedy.
Why has Ateneo’s upcoming season become a topic of discussion?
Public discussions emerged following the deaths of Divine Adili and Rene Baterbonia during the June 8 team-building activity.
What happened to Divine Adili?
Divine Adili died alongside teammate Rene Baterbonia during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8, 2026.
Are investigations still ongoing?
Yes. The National Bureau of Investigation and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group continue conducting separate investigations.
Has Ateneo announced plans to withdraw from the UAAP season?
No. As of publication, Ateneo has not announced plans to withdraw from the upcoming UAAP season.
Disclaimer: Headline Image from GMA Network.
