Manila, Philippines — Former Ateneo Blue Eagles head coach Thomas Anthony “Tab” Baldwin admitted that he never obtained an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) or a Certificate of Exemption in the Philippines since 2016, documents that serve as proof of a foreign national’s legal authority to work in the country.
Baldwin personally confirmed this during a clarificatory session conducted by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) as part of its ongoing public hearing into his employment status.
According to Baldwin, he had previously received an AEP application form but never completed it.
He also said that a lawyer had advised him that his permanent resident card was sufficient.
This was questioned by the DOLE, which said it would issue a subpoena to the lawyer who allegedly gave Baldwin that advice.
The DOLE maintained that holding an Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) does not exempt a foreign national from securing an Alien Employment Permit (AEP).
In other words, having permanent resident visa status does not automatically authorize a foreigner to work in the Philippines without an AEP.
Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino also raised concerns over missing details in the verified answer submitted by Baldwin’s camp on June 25.
According to Baldwin itself, he had already been working in the Philippines as early as 2013 as a consultant for the FIBA Asia Men’s Basketball Tournament under the Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas (SBP), but not written in the verified answer submitted.
The DOLE said that Baldwin could be considered an illegal alien if it is proven that he worked in the Philippines without the proper authorization.
If found liable, he could face imprisonment and deportation.
Ateneo is scheduled to appear before the DOLE on July 9 to answer questions related to the ongoing case involving Baldwin.
The DOLE has also directed Baldwin’s camp to submit copies of his previous contracts with Ateneo for review.
These will be examined to determine the terms of the agreement, the dates of his employment, the compensation and benefits he received, and the scope of his duties and responsibilities.