The Department of Labor and Employment has summoned Ateneo de Manila University head coach Tab Baldwin to appear personally before the agency and present proof of a valid and current Alien Employment Permit, amid growing scrutiny following the deaths of two student-athletes during a team-building activity in Aurora last Monday.
In a statement, DOLE Secretary Francis Tolentino said the summons was issued in connection with the tragic demise of Rene Baterbonia, 18, and Divine Adili, 21, in a drowning incident that happened inside a private resort.
The DOLE cited Article 40 of the Labor Code of the Philippines and DOLE Department Order No. 248, Series of 2025, stressing that all foreign nationals working in the country are required to secure a valid Alien Employment Permit before engaging in any form of employment.
“Secretary Tolentino has directed DOLE officers to verify Baldwin’s AEP status and require him to show cause should any deficiency be found,” the agency said, adding that no foreign national is exempt from the requirement.
Baldwin, 68, has served as head coach of the Blue Eagles since 2016.
As of press time, he has yet to issue any public statement regarding the incident.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government, under Secretary Jonvic Remulla, also confirmed that the Philippine National Police, through the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
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“The PNP has commenced a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident in Dipaculao, Aurora, on June 8, 2026,” the DILG said.
“Subpoenas have been issued to the coaches and players present during the activity as part of fact-finding efforts, including the examination of possible violations of Republic Act No. 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018.”
The department extended condolences to the bereaved families and emphasized that due process will be observed throughout the investigation.
“All concerned individuals are expected to fully cooperate with the investigating authorities. Due process will be strictly observed, and accountability will be enforced wherever the facts lead,” it added, urging the public to avoid speculation.
Also on Thursday, Philippine Sports Commission chair Pato Gregorio also weighed in, calling on Baldwin to publicly address the issue.
“Where is Tab Baldwin? Why is he still not speaking up? This is beyond Ateneo. This is a national concern,” Gregorio said.
“Out of respect for the families and the Filipino people, he has to come forward. He has been here for 10 years. I don’t understand why he can’t understand our culture — konting respeto at pakikipagkapwa naman.”
