Ateneo's Divine Adili in UAAP Season 88. UAAP Media
MANILA – Nearly 100 days since the fatal Ateneo Blue Eagles team-building activity in Aurora, the parents of the late Divine Adili are visiting the Philippines for the first time.
The Ateneo de Manila University announced that Adili's parents will arrive in the country on Sunday evening.
"Tonight, we warmly welcome Mr. and Mrs. Adili to Manila and to the Ateneo community. Their arrival marks their first visit to the Philippines, and we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to have them with us and to spend time together in the days ahead," the University said in a statement.
READ: UAAP board perpetually bans Tab Baldwin; Ateneo Blue Eagles eligible for Season 89
UAAP Season 89 Preview: Ateneo takes flight in new era with Bobet, Divine in mind
During their visit, Adili's parents will meet with members of the Ateneo Men's Basketball Team and attend the Blue Eagles' first two games in UAAP Season 89.
Ateneo team manager Nico Salva earlier invited the Adili and Rene Baterbonia families to join the community as the Blue Eagles open the season.
The team said they dedicate every game and the entire season to their fallen brothers, Adili and Baterbonia, honoring them with special patches on their jerseys.
"Their visit carries special meaning for all of us. As the team begins a season dedicated to the memory of Divine and Rene Baterbonia, we are grateful that Divine's parents can be here with the teammates, friends, and community who shared an important part of his life," Ateneo said.
"We hope their time in Ateneo allows them to remember Divine through the people who knew him, played alongside him, and cared for him. May their visit be a meaningful one, surrounded by the community that continues to hold Divine, Rene, and their families close," the University added.
Ateneo asked for everyone "to receive the Adili family with warmth, care, and respect, while also giving them the privacy and space they need" as they continue to grieve the loss of the Nigerian big man.
Last June 8, Adili and Baterbonia died after drowning during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.
With Adili and Baterbonia in mind, the Blue Eagles will open their UAAP Season 89 campaign against the University of the East Red Warriors on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
RELATED VIDEO: