President Duterte has signed a law granting Philippine citizenship to basketball player Kakou Ange Franck Williams Kouame from Ivory Coast.
Republic Act No. 11543 grants citizenship to Kouame with "all the rights, privileges, and prerogatives, as well as the duties and obligations" under the Constitution and laws of the country.
Kouame, a 6-foot-10 cager from Ateneo Blue Eagles, is currently a member of Gilas Pilipinas. His citizenship through naturalization is seen to boost the national basketball team's chances in international competitions including the FIBA qualifiers.
"Mr. Kouame shall take the Oath of Allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines before an officer duly authorized to administer the same. The Oath of Allegiance shall be registered with the Bureau of Immigration," the law read.
After registration of the allegiance oath, the law directed the immigration bureau to issue a "Certificate of Naturalization" to Kouame who shall enter into the "full enjoyment of Philippine citizenship."
The law, signed by the President on May 18, will take effect upon publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper.
President Duterte signs law granting Philippine citizenship to basketball player Kakou Ange Franck Williams Kouame | via @GenKabiling pic.twitter.com/l7uMm7FqLU
— Manila Bulletin News (@manilabulletin) May 18, 2021