Manila: Former Ateneo de Manila University men's basketball coach Tab Baldwin has been found lacking an alien employment permit (AEP), as revealed by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Baldwin's employment status was scrutinized during the agency's motu proprio clarificatory conference.

According to Philippines News Agency, Baldwin has not completed an application for an AEP nor secured a certificate of exemption, as highlighted during the DOLE hearing. DOLE Secretary Francis Tolentino, who led the proceedings, emphasized that the investigation focuses on Baldwin's authority to engage in gainful employment in the Philippines.

The initial findings from DOLE state that Baldwin has neither applied for an Alien Employment Permit nor filed for an exemption or exclusion. This is in accordance with DOLE Department Order Numbers 221-22 and 248-25, along with related guidelines.

Baldwin's legal representatives, Janella Flordeliza and Daniel Darvin, argued that the coach does not need an AEP due to his permanent residency visa in the Philippines, asserting that he was not required to have an AEP when his residency status was granted. However, Tolentino responded to the media regarding Baldwin's claim of exemption, noting the importance of adhering to the AEP requirement by law.

The DOLE plans to issue a subpoena to Ateneo officials, mandating their appearance before the department on July 9 to explain their position concerning Baldwin's employment status. Baldwin's camp has also been asked to provide copies of previous contracts to assess the agreement's specifics, including duration, commencement date, stipulated emoluments, and scope of responsibilities.