The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has summoned Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Blue Eagles head coach Tab Baldwin to appear before the agency amid questions over his legal employment status following the tragic death of two players during a team building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8, 2026.
DOLE Investigation into Baldwin's Employment Permit
Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino announced on Thursday, June 11, 2026, that DOLE is scrutinizing the validity of Baldwin's Alien Employment Permit (AEP). The permit is required for all foreign nationals working in the Philippines. Tolentino emphasized that no foreign worker is exempt from this requirement, regardless of their status or reputation.
"If he is compliant, there is nothing to fear. If he is not, then the Department will act accordingly. This is not about persecution. This is about the rule of law," Tolentino said during a press briefing.
Details of the Summons
The summons was issued in response to the fatal drowning of Ateneo players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili on June 8 during a team building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora. The incident raised concerns about the conduct, supervision, and legal employment status of the foreign coaching staff overseeing the activity.
Baldwin is required to produce several documents, including:
- His valid and current AEP authorizing him to serve as head coach of ADMU
- Proof that the permit covers the full scope of his coaching job, including off-campus training activities
- A valid employment contract with Ateneo
- Documents showing compliance with DOLE reporting requirements
Additionally, Baldwin must submit a written explanation of the circumstances surrounding the team building activity.
Possible Consequences for Non-Compliance
If Baldwin fails to heed the summons, DOLE may take several actions against him:
- Cancellation or suspension of his AEP
- Referral to the Bureau of Immigration for appropriate immigration actions, including possible deportation proceedings
- Assessment of administrative penalties against ADMU as the employing institution for failing to ensure its foreign employees hold valid work permits
- Filing of appropriate charges under the Labor Code for illegal employment of a foreign national
Tolentino stressed that all foreign nationals working in the Philippines must comply with labor laws. "No foreign national is exempt from this requirement. No foreign national working in this country is above the law regardless of their status, reputation or the institution they represent. Coach Baldwin is employed in the Philippines and is subject to Philippine Labor Laws," he said.
Background on the Incident
Baldwin has been serving as ADMU Blue Eagles head coach since 2016. On June 8, 2026, players Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili died after a drowning incident during the team building activity of the Blue Eagles in Dipaculao, Aurora. The tragedy has prompted investigations into the safety protocols and supervision during the activity.
