PASAY CITY—The Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights moved one step closer to bolstering the Philippines' athletic arsenal, deliberating on measures to grant Filipino citizenship to American basketball player Bennie Boatwright III and wrestler Matthew James Ramos on May 6. 

Led by Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, the hearing saw sports officials and government agencies rally behind the two athletes. 

Officials emphasized that naturalizing the pair is a strategic move to secure the country’s qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Senator Pangilinan threw his full weight behind the applications, noting that the move is a mutual investment between the athletes and the nation. 

He remarked that Boatwright and Ramos have actively chosen to carry the Filipino flag into the world’s most demanding competitive arenas. 

“Through basketball and wrestling, Bennie and Matthew have chosen to carry our flag into the most demanding arenas of global competition, Pangilinan stated, highlighting their commitment to representing the country beyond just their physical prowess.

While the committee showed strong support, Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada reminded the applicants that naturalization remains a prestigious privilege, not a right. 

He underscored the need to maintain the integrity of the process, demanding that the athletes uphold the responsibility of representing the national colors with honor. 

As a dedicated sports enthusiast, Estrada reaffirmed his commitment to legislation that improves athlete welfare and develops the local sports industry.

“As a sports enthusiast, this representation continuously supports measures that promote better conditions of athletes and provide development to the sports industry,” the Senator said.

Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go further echoed this support, citing the athletes' "genuine allegiance" to the Philippines and their unwavering drive for excellence. 

Go argued that integrating Boatwright and Ramos into the national program would not only sharpen the country’s competitive edge internationally but also serve as a beacon of inspiration for the next generation of home-grown Filipino athletes. 

The bills now await further committee action before moving to the plenary.

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