Bong Go pushes for naturalization of Boatwright

SENATOR Christopher Lawrence “Bong” T. Go batted for the naturalization of Bennie Boatwright to help Gilas Pilipinas upgrade for future battles.

Mr. Go, chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports and co-author of Senate Bill No. 1595 that seeks to grant Philippine citizenship to Mr. Boatwright, said the 6-foot-10 forward will enable Gilas to address its needs in height and shooting.

Mr. Boatwright wasn’t able to attend the hearing as he couldn’t get permission from his Korean club, Daegu Kogas Pegasus, to fly to Manila yet.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Erika Dy said the 29-year-old Mr. Boatwright is set to come over next month.

Without the one-time PBA champion’s absence, though, Justice Committee Chair Senator Francis N. Pangilinan ruled to defer action on Mr. Boatwright’s citizenship bill. — Olmin Leyba