SBP to work on Chinese belle naturalization

MANILA, Philippines - The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas yesterday vowed to work on the naturalization papers of Chinese center Zheng Xiaoping early next year after it was shelved despite Congress’ approval on its second reading.

“I have no update on the matter, maybe because of the holiday season,” SBP executive director Sonny Barrios told The STAR yesterday. “But the SBP will work on it next year.”

The 26-year-old Zheng’s application was actually filed almost the same time as Smart Gilas center Marcus Douthit, whose application was enacted into law after the Congress approval early this year.

The 6-10 Douthit, currently playing in the pro-league in China, played for the Nationals in last September’s FIBA-Asia Championship in Wuhan, China.

The SBP had hoped to include Zheng in the team that finished second in the recent SEA Games.

But House Bill 02683, seeking the naturalization of the 6-4 Zheng, has been put on hold for quite sometime.

“The last I heard it’s still with Congress and for whatever reason, I really don’t know,” said SBP deputy executive director Bernie Atienza.

The bill was actually filed August last year by Antipolo City First District Rep. Roberto Puno and was approved by the Committee on Justice on Sept. 27 and on the second reading a day after.

A third reading must be approved to pave the way for the Fujian native’s naturalization.