Manila: Exactly two months after the tragic drowning incident in Dipaculao, Aurora, the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) dropped the hammer on former Ateneo De Manila head coach Tab Baldwin, as he is now "perpetually banned" from the league. The UAAP announced that Baldwin, who led the Blue Eagles to a three-peat from 2017-2019, can no longer join the team in any capacity in any sport.
According to Philippines News Agency, the UAAP stated that Thomas Anthony Baldwin is banned from all UAAP competitions and related activities in any coaching, administrative, advisory, or official capacity, and he is also prohibited from entering any UAAP competition venue. This sanction is final and shall not be appealable.
Meanwhile, team manager Epok Quimpo, assistant coaches Dean Casta±o, Sandro Soriano, Reynaldo Jacinto Jr., Hernan Domingo, Caesar Elumba, and Grant Dearns, along with physical therapist John Rueca, are given indefinite suspensions "until further determination by the UAAP Board." They are not permitted to enter UAAP competition venues in an official capacity. However, this sanction may be appealed to the UAAP Board following its applicable rules and procedures.
Despite the sanctions imposed on Baldwin and other personnel involved in the unfortunate training camp incident that resulted in the drowning of Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, the UAAP has cleared Ateneo to participate in the upcoming 89th season. The board noted findings from investigative government agencies, which did not recommend holding the student-athletes liable for the incident. The Ateneo men's basketball student-athletes are considered victims of this tragedy, and they will remain eligible to compete, honoring their fallen teammates through competition.
A precondition has been set for the Blue Eagles' participation, requiring a comprehensive reassessment of the organizational structure and management of its men's basketball team. This reassessment aims to enhance student-athlete protection, welfare, accountability, and institutional oversight.
Former National Collegiate Athletic Association and Metropolitan Basketball Association champion coach Louie Alas temporarily took over Ateneo's reins as interim coach, while former Blue Eagle Nico Salva was named interim team manager. With Ateneo cleared to join, the UAAP will continue as an eight-school league in Season 89 starting on September 12.
In response, Ateneo has issued a separate statement urging its community to support the Blue Eagles across all varsity teams as they continue their journey of healing, growth, resilience, excellence, and formation.
