THE UNIVERSITY Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) has barred all members of the Ateneo de Manila University coaching staff who were present during the ill-fated team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, on June 8, where men’s basketball players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili drowned.

In a statement released Friday, the UAAP said the sanction takes effect immediately.

“As such, they are prohibited from participating in any UAAP-related activities, in any capacity, effective immediately and while these investigations are being conducted,” the collegiate league said.

“This preemptive measure, adopted even prior to the UAAP season, is intended to preserve the integrity of the ongoing inquiry and to ensure full transparency and due process as facts surrounding the incident are being carefully examined.”

The UAAP did not specify which members of the coaching staff would be covered by the ban.

The league has given Ateneo until July 15 to complete its fact-finding investigation into the incident. A final ruling will be issued after the university concludes its inquiry.

“Amidst differing and clashing perceptions on this tragic incident, the UAAP, as a collegial body, is committed to adhere to its own governing rules and processes, where the acts of a member-university and personalities involved will be thoroughly evaluated by the other member schools before passing judgment,” the UAAP said.

“The UAAP reiterates that accountability shall be determined based on the results of a thorough and impartial investigation and its fidelity to its own rules and regulations. All those found responsible for any wrongdoing shall be held fully accountable under league regulations,” it added.

Among the possible sanctions under consideration is a one-season suspension across all sports. If imposed, Ateneo’s Blue Eagles would be unable to defend their titles in the men’s swimming competition and the collegiate badminton tournament.