Naturalization bills for two athletes delayed due to Senate gridlock

SECOND CONSECUTIVE DAY OF NO-SHOW BY MAJORITY SENATORS Minority senators gather inside the Senate plenary hall during a scheduled session at the Senate of the Philippines in Pasay City on June 2, 2026. With no majority bloc senators appearing on the session floor, the minority later convened a private meeting at the Senate Lounge. —INQUIRER PHOTO / NIÑO JESUS ORBETA

MANILA, Philippines — As the Senate failed to hold its plenary session for the second consecutive day, naturalization bills involving two athletes remain delayed, leaving their playing eligibility in limbo.

The two bills, specifically House Bill Numbers 6639 and 6644, are currently awaiting approval on third and final reading.

It seeks to grant Philippine citizenship to basketball athlete Bennie Francois Boatwright III and wrestler Matthew James Ramos.

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