Senate OKs Douthit’s naturalization bill; one reading left

MANILA—The Senate approved on Tuesday the bill that would confer Philippine citizenship on American Marcus Douthit, brightening his chances of donning the national colors in the Asian Games in Guongzhou in November and the FIBA qualifying tournament for the 2012 London Olympics next year.   Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director Noli Eala said Senate Bill No. 2559 seeking to grant Douthit Filipino citizenship, passed the scrutiny of the senators on the first and second readings.   Eala said if the bill passes the third reading scheduled today, the 6-foot-10 former Providence alum will be a step closer to securing his Filipino citizenship.   Once Douthit earns the approval of the Senate, his documents will be forwarded to the Office of the President for signing on Thursday.   According to Eala, there will be a two-week publication period before Douthit could apply for a Philippine passport.   Eala said the target date for Douthit to secure his passport and apply for accreditation in the Asiad is on Oct. 30.   “We have to get it on the third reading tomorrow (today),” said Eala. “If not, Marcus will not be able to play in the Asian Games.”   Eala said the Senate would take a break on Thursday and would resume its sessions on Nov. 8.   By that time, it will already be too late for Douthit to secure a Philippine passport for the Nov. 12-27 Asiad in Guangzhou.   “Tomorrow is critical. If we get it tomorrow, I think we’ll be fine,” said Eala. Endorsed by Senator Miguel Zubiri, Douthit’s application was approved by the Senate Committee on Justice chaired by Sen. Chiz Escudero before it was submitted to the plenary.   The House of Representatives approved the application of Douthit last week.