Two more hurdles before Spaniard Bienve Marañon becomes a full-fledged Filipino.
Senate Bill 1391 that seeks to naturalize the 34-year-old El Puerto-born striker has passed its second reading, Monday.
“He has come to love the country and the people. He dreams of building a family in this country, and raising his children surrounded by the kindness, humility, and hospitality that Filipinos are known for,” said bill author Miguel Zubiri, also the president of the Philippine Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation.
SB 1391 needs to pass one more reading in the senate before moving up to Malacañang. Once signed by President Rodrigo Duterte, Marañon becomes a Filipino.
Marañon is a 5-foot-8 winger who plays for United City.
Last PFL season, he tallied seven goals to win the Golden Boot award while leading UCFC to the championship.
He is the all-time leading scorer in the AFC Cup with 35 goals.
Once naturalized, Marañon will be eligible to be fielded by the Philippine Azkals.
