THE DEPARTMENT of Labor and Employment will issue a subpoena to Ateneo de Manila University Men’s Basketball head coach Tab Baldwin after the Aurora drowning incident of athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili during a team-building activity.
Baldwin is summoned to personally appear before Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino on Monday, June 15.
Tolentino said Baldwin must present documents proving his authority to work in the country, being a foreign national.
“No foreign national working in this country is above the law regardless of their status, reputation, or the institution they represent,” the labor chief said in a press release on Thursday.
Baldwin was directed to present his valid and current Alien Employment Permit (AEP) issued by DOLE authorizing him to serve as head coach of the university’s men’s basketball team.
An AEP is a requirement for a valid working visa for alien workers in the Philippines.
He must also submit proof that the AEP covers the full scope of his coaching and supervisory activities, including off-campus training exercises such as the team-building activity held in Dipaculao, Aurora, where the incident occurred on June 8, 2026.
The secretary likewise ordered Baldwin to submit documents demonstrating compliance with DOLE reporting requirements under Department Order No. 248, Series of 2025, including notifications of any changes in position, workplace, or scope of work.
A written explanation of the circumstances surrounding the activity, including its nature, supervision arrangements, and safety protocols observed, was also requested from Baldwin.
Tolentino cited Article 40 and Article 128 of the Labor Code, Department Order No. 248, Series of 2025, and DOLE Administrative Order No. 199, Series of 2026, as legal bases for the department’s action.
Failure to comply with the subpoena, or any finding of unauthorized employment, could result in the cancellation or suspension of Baldwin’s AEP.
The secretary warned that Baldwin may be referred to the Bureau of Immigration for possible deportation proceedings, administrative penalties against Ateneo de Manila University, and the filing of charges under the Labor Code for illegal employment of a foreign national.
Tolentino extended condolences to the families of both victims.
“The family of Rene and Divine deserves answers, and they deserve accountability,” Tolentino added.
Baterbonia’s post-mortem examination confirmed that he died from asphyxia by drowning.
His remains will be flown to Davao on Friday for a one day wake at Ateneo de Davao University-Senior High School.
Meanwhile, Ateneo Blue Eagles head coach Tab Baldwin and team manager Epok Quimpo are on indefinite leave, according to the university.
