On Monday, June 29, 2026, the legal team of former Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Blue Eagles head coach Tab Baldwin asserted that he is exempt from obtaining an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The statement was made during a motu proprio clarificatory conference conducted by DOLE, which Baldwin personally attended.
Legal Argument for Exemption
Lawyers Daniel Darvin and Janella Flordeliza represented Baldwin at the hearing. Darvin stated, "We are of the position that the AEP is not a requirement strictly applicable to our client in light of his permanent resident visa." Flordeliza added, "This inquiry presupposes that Baldwin is required to secure an AEP. But we respectfully submit that he is not required to secure one."
DOLE Findings on AEP Status
During the conference, DOLE officials revealed that Baldwin has never possessed an AEP despite coaching ADMU since 2016. DOLE Undersecretary Gerard Mosquera said, "The records of the Department of Labor and Employment reflect that he has neither applied for an Alien Employment Permit, nor has he filed an application for exemption." Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino confirmed, "Based on Bureau of Local Employment records, your name is not listed as among foreign nationals granted with an AEP." Baldwin himself acknowledged this, stating, "I do not have nor do I believe I have ever had a (AEP) card like that."
Background and Context of the Inquiry
An Alien Employment Permit is issued by DOLE to foreign nationals qualified to work in a position that no Filipino is competent, able, and willing to perform. The DOLE inquiry aimed to examine Baldwin's work status and authority to coach basketball in the Philippines. The investigation was triggered by the deaths of Ateneo student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.
