Romero, 3 others file bill to naturalize Brownlee

MANILA, Philippines — Four members of House of Representatives, led by Mikee Romero (1Pacman Party-list), yesterday jointly filed a bill for naturalization bid of Ginebra import Justine Brownlee.

In a House Bill No. 8106, Romero, along with Reps. Enrico Pineda, Erico Artistotle Aumentado and Scott Davies Lanete said Brownlee is deserving to become naturalized Filipino having played in the PBA since 2016.

“His allegiance in this country is indubitable, his skills and competency in the field of basketball shall truly complement the entire nation. Thus let the Congress give him the privilege of becoming a Filipino citizen,” the authors added.

Aside from his wish of playing for Ginebra forever, Brownlee said he also wants to make Philippines his permanent home.

“I wish I could live here all year round but unfortunately, there are government rules and things like that but I wish I could be at home permanently,” he said.

Brownlee has signified his intention to become a naturalized Filipino after powering crowd favorite Barangay Ginebra to the PBA Commissioner’s Cup championship recently.

“He has brought enormous pride and joy to the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), as well as to all basketball enthusiasts in the country. Justin Brownlee said he can have a house here just like Norman Black or other imports who have fallen in love with the Filipinos and the Philippines. With a very decorated and illustrious career, he wishes to play for the Philippine National team,” the four said.

“I read in various outlets his wish to become a naturalized Filipino that’s why I filed a bill today,” said Romero, noting the passage would be smooth considering that San Miguel top honcho Ramon Ang will also help in facilitating all the pertinent papers needed.

On his part, Ang said: “We will apply and will sponsor him to be a Filipino citizen so he can play for the next 100 years.”

“He’s a very, very nice guy and in fact, I think we will all be very happy if he’s going to be a Filipino,” he added.

Aside from Ang, also appealing for Brownlee’s case are PBA and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) officials.

“We don’t need to look for other guys because Brownlee is more Filipino than other Filipinos,” said Romero.

Romero is confident the process of naturalization will not be too long, saying Brownlee is sincere.

Under the bill, Brownlee, if granted citizenship, would enjoy the rights, privileges and prerogatives of a Filipino after taking his oath of allegiance.

The measure would take effect after 15 days from its publication in the Official Gazette or two newspapers of general circulation. 

Congress has in the past given citizenship to foreign basketball players and businessmen, many of whom have been permanent residents for years or have married Filipinas. – With report from Jess Diaz