Malick Diouf, Elizabeth Means granted Filipino citizenship

Basketball players Malick Diouf and Elizabeth Means have officially been granted Filipino citizenship after the measures concerning their naturalization lapsed into law last Monday.

Diouf’s naturalization was approved under Republic Act No. 12318, while Means received Filipino citizenship through Republic Act No. 12319.

Diouf, 27, is a Senegalese big man who previously played for the UP Fighting Maroons and was part of the team that captured the UAAP men’s basketball championship in 2022. He is expected to bolster the country’s 3x3 basketball program.

The 23-year old Means, meanwhile, is an American forward who previously played for Westminster University and is expected to suit up for Gilas Pilipinas Women.

Also in the pipeline for the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas’ naturalization program is Bennie Boatwright. Wrestler Matthew James Ramos is likewise seeking Filipino citizenship.

—JKC, GMA News