PARTY-LIST Rep. Mikee L. Romero of 1-Pacman filed a House Bill on Wednesday that seeks Filipino citizenship for Barangay Ginebra San Miguel resident import Justin Brownlee.
Along with Reps. Enrico Pineda, Erico Aristotle Aumentado and Scott Davies Lanete, House Bill 8106 explained that Brownlee’s exceptional disposition on and off the court is a manifestation of Filipino character.
“He continues with his efficient sportive activities and is socially active through community service. Justin Brownlee is dependable when it comes to helping Filipinos—a true mark of a Filipino spirit and character,” the bill stated.
“His allegiance in this country is indubitable, his skills and competency in the field of basketball truly complement the entire nation,” it added. “Thus, let Congress give to him the privilege of becoming a Filipino citizen.
Brownlee recently won his third championship with the Gin Kings following a six-game dethroning of their sister team San Miguel Beermen. He was named the Best Import of the Commissioner’s Cup.
The American recently expressed his intention to be a Filipino citizen. His boss, Ramon S. Ang of San Miguel Corp., quickly gave a thumbs-up and pledged to sponsor Brownlee’s desire.
The bill should pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate. A senator should also sponsor a similar bill and be passed for it to become a law.
Andray Blatche is currently the naturalized player for Gilas Pilipinas, but the 31-year-old was slapped a three-game suspension by Fiba following the infamous brawl against Australian players last month.