The Senate on Wednesday approved on third and final reading House Bill No. 6639 and House Bill No. 6644 granting Philippine citizenship to basketball player Bennie Francois Boatwright III and wrestler Matthew James Ramos.

The measures were approved during a special session of the Senate with a vote of 13-0-0.

House Bill No. 6639 confers citizenship on Boatwright, while House Bill No. 6644 grants the same to Ramos, making both athletes eligible to represent the Philippines in international competitions.

Senator Francis Pangilinan, who sponsored the measures, said both athletes have shown commitment to the country despite opportunities elsewhere.

“Matthew and Bennie are world-class athletes who, despite the many opportunities and paths available to them elsewhere, have chosen to cast their lot with the Filipino people,” Pangilinan said.

Both Boatwright and Ramos were absent during Wednesday’s session, but senators noted they had been present at the Senate for three consecutive days prior to the adjournment of the regular session on June 3.

Boatwright, a 6-foot-10 forward from Los Angeles, has played in the NBA G League and other international leagues before joining the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) as an import for the San Miguel Beermen.

Ramos, born in Naperville, Illinois, to a Filipino father, has built a decorated wrestling career that includes a cadet world championship and NCAA All-American honors while competing for Purdue University. He is expected to compete for the Philippines in international tournaments sanctioned by the Wrestling Association of the Philippines.