By Aaron Recuenco
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has ordered basketball coach Thomas Anthony “Tab” Baldwin to pay ₱9.8 million in penalties for violating labor rules on the employment of foreign nationals.
According to DOLE, the fine stemmed from Baldwin’s failure to secure an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) and a Certificate of Exemption (COE), both required under Article 40 of the Labor Code for foreign nationals working in the Philippines.
Ateneo, as his employer, was likewise penalized ₱4.9 million for not ensuring compliance with these requirements.
The violations covered Baldwin’s tenure as head coach of Ateneo’s men’s basketball team from February 10, 2025, until his resignation on June 15, 2026.
DOLE imposed a ₱10,000 daily penalty for 490 days, amounting to ₱4.9 million.
In addition, both Baldwin and Ateneo were fined ₱10,000 each for their separate lapses in securing the AEP.
In its ruling, DOLE emphasized that Baldwin had no valid AEP or COE during his employment, making his stay and work in the country unlawful.
The case has now been referred to the Bureau of Immigration for possible deportation proceedings.
Lawyers for Baldwin and Ateneo said they intend to challenge the decision through available legal remedies.
