POC grateful to Yuka Saso for bringing honor to the Philippines

The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) is grateful to Filipina-Japanese golfer Yuka Saso after carrying the Philippine flag in major tournaments the past few years.

Saso, who was born to a Filipina mother and a Japanese father, has chosen her Japanese citizenship in compliance with Japan's nationality law, where holders of dual citizenship have to choose only one nationality at the age of 22.

Saso turns 22 on June 20, 2023.

In a statement on Thursday, POC president Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino said he understands Saso's decision.

"I would like to thank her personally for representing our country for the past years. Her personal business decision will help her develop more as a person and athlete. Carrying a Japanese passport for every international tournament helps a lot," he said.

Tolentino also said that Saso remains a Filipina even though she will carry the Japanese flag

"She was born here in the Philippines so by heart she represents both," he said.

While donning the Philippine colors, Saso has brought pride and honor to the country after delivering two medals in the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta and dominating the 2021 US Women's Open.

She also represented the Philippines in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she wound up in joint ninth place.

—Bea Micaller/MGP, GMA News