MANILA – United City Football Club striker Bienvenido Marañon’s naturalization process has finally moved forward after gaining the nod of the House of Representatives’ Justice Committee.
Members of the House panel on Wednesday approved House Bill No. 7427 which seeks to grant the Spanish striker Filipino citizenship for him to suit up for the Philippine Azkals.
“In his five-year football career in the Philippines, Marañon has shown exceptional skills complemented by commendable work ethic. He is known as one of the most prolific scorers in Southeast Asia,” said Manila first district Rep. Manny Lopez, who authored the bill.
“If granted the opportunity to play for the Philippines, Marañon will undoubtedly be an invaluable asset to the national football team, the Azkals, and bring pride and honor to our country. This will also be an opportunity on the part of Congress to contribute to the Philippines’ success in the global football arena,” he added.
The 34-year-old Marañon moved to the Philippines as part of Ceres-Negros FC on May 2015 and was instrumental in the club’s ascent as a powerhouse team in the region with 61 goals and 20 assists in 99 appearances.
Marañon was also the top scorer of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup in 2019, an annual continental club football competition, organized by the AFC and participated in by 36 teams from all across Asia.
“I would like to become a Filipino because I love the country and I love the people,” he said. “I feel too much love from them and I would like to give them the love I’ve received.”
“I would love to play for the Azkals national team because I feel like I’ve been a Filipino since arrived here. I want to help them reach the World Cup, play in the Asia Cup and win the Suzuki Cup,” he added.
Marañon, who was born in El Puerto, Spain, played for third and fourth-division clubs in his home country before moving to the Philippines./PN
