Viva actor Lance Carr has expressed disappointment over the spread of fake news and online content that he believes is exploiting the memory of late Ateneo Blue Eagles recruit Rene Baterbonia.
Baterbonia died at the age of 18 after drowning off the coast of Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8, 2026. Since his passing, numerous social media posts and online content about the young basketball player’s death have circulated, some of which have been questioned for spreading misinformation.
Speaking to members of the entertainment press before the media conference for the Viva All Star Games in Quezon City, Carr said he finds it disturbing that some individuals appear to be profiting from Baterbonia’s death.
“Ang daming fake news, ang daming tao na pinagkakakitaan. It’s very outrageous. Very… I don’t know how to describe it. It’s very inhumane for me. Sana… just let the person rest na lang.”
Carr clarified that he understands the efforts of Baterbonia’s family to sell memorabilia and merchandise, noting that many are aware of their financial situation.
“Siguro naman, yung family, maiintindihan yung family. We all know naman yung financial status ng family so I could really understand na they’re making a business. Pero yung ibang mga tao kasi, parang feeling ko mema na lang yung mga ginagawang content about him.”
The actor personally knew Baterbonia through their shared ties to Ateneo de Davao University. Carr recalled that while he was in college, Baterbonia served as captain of the school’s high school basketball team, allowing them to train and play together in exhibition games.
“Actually, when I was in Ateneo Davao nung college, siya po yung captain ng high school. Nakakasama rin namin sila mag-ensayo dati and we played na rin sa mga exhibition games. I really got to know the kid. Magkakilala po talaga kami.”
Carr also shared his shock upon learning of the athlete’s death.
“Nasa Viva basketball practice kami noon, tapos pagbungad sa cellphone, ‘Hala, totoo ba ito?’ Then naglabas ng statement ang Ateneo de Manila. I was very shocked and sobrang naaawa talaga ako sa bata.”
Following Baterbonia’s passing, Carr paid tribute to the young athlete on social media, remembering him as an inspiration both on and off the basketball court.
As of writing, calls continue for the public to avoid spreading unverified information about Baterbonia’s death and to respect the privacy of his grieving family.
