Rovelyn Baterbonia, mother of late Ateneo basketball player Rene “Bobet” Baterbonia, has addressed criticisms over her appearance and branded clothing, saying the items she now wears were voluntarily given to her by people who continue to support her.
In an interview with News 5’s Mon Gualvez, Baterbonia explained that she did not ask anyone for money or gifts, stressing that the clothes, jewelry and other items she has received were offered to her willingly.
“Dahil lang siguro sa maraming taong nagmamahal sa akin,” she said when asked why she now appears in branded outfits and accessories despite the tragedy involving her son.
Baterbonia also thanked those who had given her the items, including a supporter from the countryside who gifted her clothing and people who provided her with jewelry.
She separately expressed gratitude to Dr. Arvin Nunez for sponsoring her dental veneers.
“Maraming maraming salamat po,” she said, acknowledging the people who had helped her.
Baterbonia also explained that she wears the gifts partly to show appreciation to those who gave them to her.
“Opo. Kaya ko ito sinusuot kasi gusto ko rin ma-appreciate din nila na wow, iyung ano ko, sinuot ni Mami Robilene. Para naman po iyung mga bigay nila, masaya din sila,” she said.
Her remarks came amid online criticisms suggesting that her improved appearance and choice of clothing were inappropriate following her son’s death.
Baterbonia has remained vocal about her grief and her family’s pursuit of justice for Rene, who died on June 8 during an off-campus team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, alongside fellow Ateneo student-athlete Divine Adili.
She has continued to receive public attention as she speaks about her son and the support she has received since the tragedy. (Adrian Co)
