Sen. Migz Zubiri is pushing for amendments to the dual citizenship law to automatically grant Filipino citizenship to individuals with Filipino parentage, citing cases like American wrestler Matthew James Ramos, whose father is from Pangasinan.
He expressed support for granting citizenship to Ramos and basketball player Bennie Francois Boatwright III, noting that clearer rules could help overseas Filipinos and athletes who wish to represent the Philippines.
Sen. Kiko Pangilinan sponsored measures in the Senate to grant citizenship to both athletes, saying they could strengthen Philippine sports on the international stage.
Pangilinan highlighted that Ramos and Boatwright chose to represent the Philippines despite successful careers abroad, emphasizing their commitment to wearing the Philippine flag with pride.
Zubiri said citizenship should be made automatic for those who can prove Filipino parentage, calling for a review of existing legal cut-off restrictions.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 20, 2026
