BENNIE BOATWRIGHT — PBA

GILAS PILIPINAS took one step forward in its bid to naturalize Bennie Boatwright on Wednesday with the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights endorsing his citizenship application to the plenary for approval on second and third reading.

Mr. Boatwright appeared before the Senate panel on Wednesday where he reiterated his desire to become a Filipino and help Gilas as a naturalized player soon.

“Two years ago when I (first) played here in PBA, I felt at home, I appreciate everybody, I love playing here, I love being here and I’m excited for the opportunity,” the San Miguel Beermen import said during the hearing on House Bill No. 6639 and Senate Bill No. 1595 seeking to grant him Filipino citizenship.

Mr. Boatwright was accompanied by Gilas Program Director Alfrancis Chua and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Erika Dy, who both emphasized the value the 6-foot-10 shooter will bring.

“We need height. Bennie is very young, versatile, he’s a 6-10 but he can shoot threes, he can rebound, he can do a lot of things for his height,” said Mr. Chua.

“We intend to naturalize him so that he can play for the Gilas Pilipinas team, specifically this Olympic cycle where we’re trying to qualify for the 2028 LA Olympics,” said Ms. Dy.

Mr. Boatwright’s potential Gilas debut could come even earlier with the Asian Games in September said to be implementing a passport-only requirement, making him, if ever, to play alongside current naturalized players Justin Brownlee and Ange Kouame.

“I’ll try to contribute as much as possible,” said Mr. Boatwright.

Fil-Am wrestler Matthew Ramos also appeared in the same hearing to bat for his own citizenship bid.

After the 1-hour, 14-minute hearing, Senator Joseph P. Ejercito Estrada moved to approve the Messrs. Boatwright and Ramos bills on committee level and Chairman Senator Francis N. Pangilinan seconded. — Olmin Leyba

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