Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Francis Tolentino has summoned Ateneo Blue Eagles Men’s Basketball Team head coach Thomas Anthony “Tab” Baldwin, and personally appear before him on June 15, 2026. 

According to Tolentino, Baldwin must personally appear to present his valid and current Alien Employment Permit, which authorizes him to work as the university coach.

“Kailangan pumunta po sa harap ko si Coach Baldwin sa Lunes, alas 10 ng umaga personally, to show his valid and current Alien Employment Permit issued by this department, authorizing him to serve as head coach of the Ateneo de Manila University men's basketball team,” he said

[“Coach Baldwin must personally appear before me on Monday, 10:00 AM personally, to show his valid and current Alien Employment Permit issued by this department, authorizing him to serve as head coach of the Ateneo de Manila University men's basketball team.”]

“Number two, proof that the AEP covers the full scope of coaching and supervisory activities, including off-campus training activities such as the team building exercise in Aurora,” he added

Tolentino emphasized that Baldwin is employed in the Philippines and also covered by the labor laws.

“Coach Baldwin is employed in the Philippines, subject to Philippine labor laws. DOLE is simply or will simply do its job verifying that he holds a valid and current alien employment permit as required under Article 40 of the Labor Code. 

“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,” he added

The department warned that, just in case there are proven negligence or violations involved that resulted in the death of Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili, his permit to work in the Philippines may be cancelled, and he may face deportation.

With reports from Benedict Samson