Migz Zubiri says Marañon naturalization 'now up for enrollment'

The naturalization of Bienve Marañon is now a Rodrigo Duterte signature away from happening. PFL (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—Senator Migz Zubiri has welcomed the House of Representatives' decision to concur with the amendments done for the naturalization bill of Bienve Marañon.

He then said that both the Congress and the Senate are now exerting their efforts to fast track the naturalization of the United City striker.

"I welcome the adoption by the House of Representatives of the bill granting Philippine citizenship to Mr. Bienvenido Marañon. It is now up for enrollment and will soon be transmitted to Malacañang for the president's signature," Zubiri, the author of the Senate bill for Marañon's naturalization, said on Wednesday.

He then reiterated his support for the naturalization of the Spanish born footballer, who has been calling the Philippines home since he joined United City, then known as Ceres Negros, in 2015.

"As author and co-sponsor of this measure, I have always supported Mr. Marañon through the whole process of naturalization. He is a very talented and skillful player and I believe he will be a great addition to our national football team, the Philippine Azkals," Zubiri further said.

On whether President Rodrigo Duterte signs the bill as soon as possible remains to be seen especially with the June window of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers coming up.

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