MANILA — Four congressmen led by 1-Pacman partylist Rep. Mikee Romero filed a bill that seeks to make Barangay Ginebra import Justin Brownlee a naturalized Filipino.
“He has brought enormous pride and joy to the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), as well to the basketball enthusiasts in the country,” the group of Romero, which includes Representatives Enrico Pineda, Erico Aumentado, and Scott Lanete, said in the explanatory note to House Bill 8106, the bill that officially endorses Brownlee’s naturalization.
The four solons also lauded Brownlee for his “efficient sportive activities” and being “socially active through community service.”
“Justin Donta Brownlee is dependable when it comes to helping Filipinos–a true mark of a Filipino spirit and character,” they further stated.
While a Senate version of the bill, likely to be authored by current Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas chairman Sonny Angara, is yet to be proposed, Romero’s group pleaded to their fellow congressmen for “the immediate passage of this bill.”
San Miguel Corporation sports director Alfrancis Chua revealed on Sunday that Brownlee wants to be naturalized for reasons beyond his desire to play for Gilas.
Brownlee confirmed it himself on Monday night while also expressing his openness to accept a future national team invite.
SMC COO Ramon Ang also said on Monday night that he will even sponsor Brownlee’s naturalization process.