By Kassandra Balcurza, Alethea Gene A. Maghanoy
Mitzi Louise Tapang, Dhalia Goling, Shaina Bea Ybañez,
and Asnairah Paudac
Visitors to the 32nd Naliyagan Festival in Agusan del Sur are finding more than a work of art in a mural honoring late basketball standout Rene Clert Baterbonia.
They are finding lessons on humility, perseverance, family sacrifice, and a legacy that continues to inspire years after his passing.
Created by ARTsurnon, a collective of local artists from Agusan del Sur, the mural has emerged as one of the festival's most meaningful highlights, blending the province's rich cultural heritage with the story of a young athlete whose life still resonates with Agusanons.
ARTsurnon Secretary Mary Ann Dhidz Leones said the artists wanted the mural to introduce Rene to younger generations and to those who never had the chance to know him personally.
"We wanted people, especially the youth, to know who Rene was beyond basketball," Leones said.
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"The mural highlights Rene's leadership, generosity, and most especially, the love he had for people."
The artwork portrays Baterbonia not only as a promising basketball player but also as a leader, a devoted son, and a source of inspiration whose impact extended far beyond the court.
For Rayyan Malawani, an incoming fourth-year BS Management Accounting student and student-athlete at Ateneo de Davao University, the mural carries an important message for young people navigating competition, setbacks, and expectations.
"What resonates with me the most is his humility," Malawani said.
"Even after achieving national prominence, he remained deeply grounded and never forgot where he came from."
Malawani said Baterbonia's story reminds aspiring athletes that winning games is only one part of success.
"We can all become champions of our own stories," he said. "Success isn't just about victories. It's about how you respond to challenges, support your family, and use your talents to help others."
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For supporters, the mural has also become a place of remembrance.
"Bumiyahe pa kami ng partner ko mula Bayugan City kasama ang aming mga anak para makita nang personal ang mural ni Rene," said Anne Janette Camba.
For Camba, seeing the artwork felt like reconnecting with someone she admired.
"Kaya nang makita ko ang mural, para bang kahit papaano ay nakita ko rin siya. Masayang-masaya ako na personal kong nakita ang tribute na iyon para sa kanya," she said.
Many visitors shared the same sentiment, saying the mural's lifelike details rekindled memories of a young athlete remembered not only for his talent but for his kindness and humility.
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ARTsurnon President Alan Esclamado said Baterbonia's story resonates deeply with ordinary families because it mirrors their struggles and aspirations.
"Dili lang sa sports nahimong idol si Rene, pero sa tanan. Pagkawala niya, nanggawas ang mga istorya sa iyang pakamaayo ug pagkamapainubsanon. Ingana siya ka-humble," Esclamado said.
He added that Rene used his talent to help uplift his family, creating opportunities for his six siblings through scholarships and inspiring others facing similar hardships.
As the Naliyagan Festival celebrates the culture, history, and achievements of Agusan del Sur, the mural stands as a testament to a community's determination to keep Rene's story alive.
More than preserving the memory of an athlete, it reminds young dreamers that true success is measured not only by accolades but by the lives touched through humility, compassion, and service. You may also like: Parents’ Guide to Ched rules on off-campus trainings
