Naturalized Filipino football Bienvenido Marañon.
MANILA, Philippines—Naturalized forward Bienvenido Marañon has received his Philippine passport, completing his long journey to becoming a Filipino citizen.
The Spanish-born Marañon was made a Filipino citizen on July 2 after President Rodrigo Duterte signed the naturalization papers allowing the United City FC frontman to represent the Philippines in international competitions.
“Where dreams come true,” posted Marañon on Twitter Wednesday. “Thanks to everyone involved in this process. I will work hard to make you proud to have me.”
“Enjoy the present. Maraming salamat.”
Marañon’s, who was born in El Puerto de Santa Maria, naturalization process began to gain traction on February 16 after a bill was passed in the House of Representatives.
The bill was the passed in the Senate on March 15 before Duterte ultimately signed Republic Act 11570 into law that gave the right winger his Filipino citizenship.
Marañon, 35, is the all-time leading goalscorer in the AFC Cup with 35 goals.