The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced on Tuesday, May 18, that President Rodrigo Duterte has signed a law granting Filipino citizenship to basketball player Angelo Kouame.
SBP president Al Panlilio said that Kouame only needs to complete the final steps required by FIBA in order to suit up as a naturalized player for the Philippines.
"We are confident that he'll be able play during our hosting of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers and the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Serbia," Panlilio said in a statement.
"Although Kouame's presence is crucial for these two tournaments, having him as an official member of the squad in the upcoming games is an early investment as we build towards the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup," he added.
SBP also expressed gratitude for Executive Sec. Salvador Medialdea, and Sen. Christopher 'Bong' Go, who previously served as special assistance to the President, for their assistance.
Panlilio also thanked lawmakers SBP chairperson Sen. Sonny Angara, Sen. Joel Villanueva, Sen. Richard Gordon, and SBP vice-chairperson Rep. Robbie Puno for pushing the naturalization of the 23-year old basketball player in the Congress.
"The SBP thanks all of our allies in both houses whose support has been crucial in pushing this legislation to further strengthen our Gilas Pilipinas Men," Panlilio said.
Kouame, who hails from Ivory Coast in Africa, also confirmed his naturalization in a short Twitter post saying 'Pre , Filipino ako'.
