The Ateneo Blue Eagles have withdrawn from the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup following the heartbreaking deaths of two of their players, Joseph Baterbonia and Milan Adili. The team made the announcement on Monday, citing the need to mourn and support the families of their fallen teammates.
"We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Joseph and Milan," said a statement from the Ateneo basketball program. "Our priority right now is the well-being of our players and staff as we navigate this difficult time."
The Filoil Preseason Cup committee has accepted Ateneo's withdrawal, expressing condolences to the university community. The tournament will continue with the remaining teams.
Baterbonia and Adili were both student-athletes who had recently joined the Blue Eagles. Their deaths, which occurred in separate incidents, have shocked the entire Ateneo community.