Boatwright, Ramos naturalization bills approved by Senate on 3rd reading

MANILA, Philippines – The long-awaited naturalization of basketball player Bennie Francois Boatwright III and wrestler Matthew Hames Ramos were approved on third reading at the Senate special session on Wednesday.

After being delayed since June 1, House Bills No. 6639 and 6644 which grants citizenship to the athletes were approved in the presence of 13 senators.

Boatwright, an American basketball player, is being eyed by the national team, Gilas Pilipinas, to represent the country in the 2026 Asian Games.

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Meanwhile, Filipino-American Ramos sought naturalization to participate in international competitions for the Philippine.

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Both athletes were not in attendance as they were attending their respective trainings.

They,however, consistently showed up at the session hall while awaiting the bills to be approved.

With this, the sponsor of the measures Sen. Kiko Pangilinan vowed to invite Boatwright and Ramos to the Senate.

“They were here every day and witnessed the proceedings or the lack of proceedings. But then, we will make arrangements, Mr. President, that when we convene for the SONA or perhaps that week of the SONA, that they come and visit us here in plenary,” Pangilinan said. /gsg

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