Actress Sofia Andres has spoken out following the tragic deaths of basketball players Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili, expressing grief over their passing while hoping that justice will ultimately prevail.
The deaths of Rene and Divine were first announced on June 8 after the two Ateneo student-athletes passed away during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.
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Taking to Instagram, Sofia shared a reflection on the tragedy, admitting she could not help but be deeply affected by the deaths of the young athletes. Alongside her post, she uploaded a photo of both Rene and Divine.
“As a woman, a mother, and someone who understands what it means to carry responsibilities for the people you love, hindi ko maiwasang maantig sa kwento nina Rene at Adili.”
The celebrity mom reflected not only on the lives lost, but also on the dreams and responsibilities the two athletes carried for their families.
“Behind all the headlines and noise, I see two people with dreams, families, and loved ones who depend on them. Bilang mga breadwinner, hindi lang sarili nilang kinabukasan ang dala nila, kundi pati ang pag-asa ng kanilang mga pamilya," she continued.
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Sofia went on to recognize the talent, hard work, and support systems that helped shape both athletes as they pursued their goals.
She also pointed out how Filipinos have collectively shown compassion in the wake of the tragedy, saying the overwhelming public support served as a reminder of the country’s capacity for empathy and solidarity.
“At nakita rin natin kung paano magmahal ang mga Pilipino. The outpouring of support, empathy, and concern for these two athletes is a reminder of who we are as a people — marunong tayong makiramay, umunawa, at tumindig para sa kapwa.”
As questions surrounding the incident continue to surface, Sofia expressed hope that justice in the country remains accessible to everyone regardless of status in life.
“My hope is that truth, fairness, and compassion will always prevail. Na sa ating bansa, ang hustisya at pag-asa ay hindi nakadepende sa estado sa buhay, kundi pantay na naipagkakaloob sa lahat.”
She ended her message by dedicating her words to Filipinos fighting for their dreams and families, while emphasizing the importance of dignity and equality in society.
“Para ito sa lahat ng may malalaking pangarap. Sa lahat ng lumalaban para sa pamilya. At sa paniniwalang may puwang pa rin ang malasakit, dignidad, at pagkakapantay-pantay sa ating lipunan. 🕊️”
Following the sudden deaths of Rene and Divine, several public figures from both entertainment and sports have also paid tribute while calling for justice and accountability.
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Among those who shared messages of support were actress Janine Gutierrez, basketball star Kiefer Ravena, and athlete-television host Gretchen Ho, among others.
Meanwhile, Gerald Anderson and Claudine Barretto were among those who attended Rene’s wake to offer condolences to his grieving family.