Rene Baterbonia laid to rest in Talacogon amid anguish, cries for justice (opens original article in a new tab)

Rene Baterbonia, an 18-year-old basketball player, died in a drowning accident during a team-building activity. His burial in Talacogon was marked by his mother's plea for justice and widespread mourning.

• Rene Baterbonia, an 18-year-old basketball player, died in a drowning accident during a team-building activity in Aurora on June 8.
• His mother, Rovelyn Baterbonia, demanded justice during his burial in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur, on June 24, 2026.
• Baterbonia was considered a promising athlete with potential in the UAAP, PBA, or Gilas Pilipinas, and his death left many grieving.