The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has ordered Ateneo de Manila University head basketball coach Tab Baldwin to appear before the agency to verify his legal status to work in the Philippines.
The directive comes in the wake of a tragic incident on June 8, where two Blue Eagles players, Rene Clert Baterbonia and Divine Adili, drowned during a team-building trip in Dipaculao, Aurora.
Acting Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino confirmed that the department is investigating whether Baldwin, a dual citizen of the United States and New Zealand, holds a valid Alien Employment Permit (AEP) as required by the country’s Labor Code.
“No foreign national working in this country is above the law, regardless of their status, reputation, or the institution they represent,” Tolentino stated.
“Coach Baldwin is employed in the Philippines. He is subject to Philippine labor law. DOLE is simply doing its job — verifying that he holds a valid and current Alien Employment Permit as required under Article 40 of the Labor Code.”
Baldwin, who has steered the Ateneo basketball program since 2016 and previously managed the Philippine national team, must submit his employment contract, official work permit, and documents outlining his scope of supervision. DOLE has also demanded a formal explanation regarding the safety protocols and oversight implemented during the fatal excursion.
While Baldwin has yet to release a public statement, DOLE warned that failing to comply or present proper documentation could result in severe administrative penalties. These include the cancellation of his permit and potential referral to the Bureau of Immigration.
Ateneo de Manila University could also face sanctions if found to have employed a foreign national without the necessary legal permits.
Tolentino emphasized that the investigation is a necessary step toward achieving justice for the grieving families.
“The families of Rene and Divine deserve answers, and they deserve accountability,” the labor chief said. “DOLE’s role is to ensure that every person employed in this country — Filipino or foreign — is working lawfully and within the bounds of our labor laws.”