Senate approves naturalization of Malick Diouf, Elizabeth Means

Malick Diouf and Elizabeth Means took a step closer to representing the Philippines after the Senate approved separate bills granting naturalization to both on third and final reading on Monday.

The Senate passed House Bill Nos. 6640 and 6641, which seek Filipino citizenship for the two Gilas Pilipinas prospects. 

Diouf is being eyed for inclusion in the Gilas Pilipinas' 3x3 pool while Means is expected to join the women's 3x3 squad as the country looks to bolster its national team program by injecting a foreign player.

Sponsored by Senator Kiko Pangilinan, the measures will now be sent to the Office of the President for the final approval and signing into law.

Aside from Diouf and Means, also seeking to undergo naturalization are Bennie Boatwright and wrestler Matthew James Ramos.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News