Justin Brownlee’s Fil citizenship bid approved by Hse on 2nd reading
By Nidz Godino
“Aside from being an athlete, he is actively supporting local sports programs, activities, and community services in Filipino communities,” House of Representatives approved on second reading measure granting Philippine citizenship to American basketball player Justin Donta Brownlee, another step to make him eligible to play for Gilas Pilipinas men’s basketball team.
The committee report on the measure, numbered House Bill 6224, noted Brownlee has signified his intention to play for Gilas Pilipinas when the country hosts FIBA Basketball World Cup next year and has proved his mettle in leading Barangay Ginebra basketball team to five PBA championships.
“He embodies Filipino values of perseverance, determination, and dedication to work in service to the country, and has sincere desire to live in the Philippines as Filipino citizen,” it stressed.
House Bill 6224, which was approved by lawmakers via voice vote, also said that once bill granting Brownlee was passed by Congress and signed into law by the President, he would take an Oath of Allegiance to the Philippines before an officer duly authorized to administer such oath.
The same Oath of Allegiance will then be registered with Bureau of Immigration (BI).
Once Oath of Allegiance is registered, BI will issue Certificate of Naturalization to Brownlee who thereupon enters into full enjoyment of Philippine citizenship.
House Bill 6224’s counterpart bill in the Senate has been approved at the committee level a day earlier.
ISKUP! 