Bennie Boatwright naturalization OK’d by Senate

FILE – Gilas Pilipinas prospect Bennie Boatwright. –INQUIRER PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–San Miguel Beer import Bennie Boatwright moved on the brink of becoming a naturalized Filipino after the Senate approved on third and final reading the bill seeking his naturalization during a special session on Wednesday.

Senators unanimously approved House of Representatives Bill 6639, or the measure granting Philippine citizenship to Boatwright, with all 13 lawmakers present voting in the affirmative.

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READ: Bennie Boatwright stays patient on Gilas Pilipinas naturalization

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Also approved on final reading was House Bill 6644, which seeks to grant Philippine citizenship to Filipino-American wrestler Matthew James Ramos.

The naturalization bills were among the measures caught in the prolonged Senate leadership impasse, which prevented the chamber from acting on pending legislation before going on a break on June 3.

Senator Francis Pangilinan, who sponsored the naturalization measures, welcomed the development and acknowledged the patience shown by the applicants throughout the process.

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READ: Bennie Boatwright naturalization for Gilas for faces long wait

“They were here every day and witnessed the proceedings – or the lack of proceedings,” Pangilinan said before the vote.

The measure will now be transmitted to Malacañang for the President’s signature.

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A versatile 6-foot-10 forward-center, Boatwright has been identified by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas as a potential addition to the Gilas Pilipinas pool of naturalized players.

He last suited up for San Miguel Beer in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, where he averaged 31 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game.

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Once signed into law and after complying with the requirements of naturalization, Boatwright would join Justin Brownlee and Ange Kouame among the foreign-born players eligible to represent the Philippines in international basketball competitions. (PNA)