The process of granting Ivory Coast standout Angelo Kouame with Filipino citizenship is under way.
Senator Sonny Angara, who is chairman of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), made the initiative after he filed Senate Bill 1892 last Thursday.
The act was part of the country’s ongoing efforts to build up its national team in time for the 2023 World Cup.
Senate Bill 1892 is a counterpart of House Bill 5951 filed by SBP vice chairman, Antipolo City Rep. Robbie Puno.
“We have seen what Kouame has accomplished as a member of the Ateneo Blue Eagles in the past three years and his game continues to develop,” said Angara said.
The 20-year-old Kouame is expected to be part of the pool of naturalized players of Gilas Pilipinas.
And this will make Kouame available to play for the national squad until he turns pro.
The 6’11” Kouame averaged 12.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, 2.9 blocks and 1.4 assists a game in Season 82 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.
The Blue Eagles won the crown via 16-0 sweep in Season 82.
The House of Representatives previously granted Philippine citizenship to Marcus Douthit and Andray Blatche.
