Diouf, Means get naturalized

MANILA, Philippines — Two measures granting Philippine citizenship to Gilas Pilipinas prospects have lapsed into law. 

Republic Act 12318 granted Philippine citizenship to Maodo “Malick” Diouf, a 6’11” basketball player born in Dakar, Senegal who is being considered to be included in the Gilas Pilipinas’ 3x3 pool.

Republic Act 12319, meanwhile, granted Philippine citizenship to Elizabeth Jeanette Means, who wants to play for the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s National Team. 

The two measures lapsed into law last May 18. 

Diouf played a “crucial role” in the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons’ successful bid to bag the UAAP Season 84 championship, according to the House bill seeking to grant him Filipino citizenship. He was named the Most Valuable Player in UAAP Season 85.  

“Standing at 6 feet 11 inches, Malick’s height is a tremendous asset to the Philippine men’s basketball team. His size, combined with his mobility and basketball IQ, provides the team with a strong inside presence both defensively and offensively,” the House bill read.    

The Senate bill said Means’ character and athletic prowess make her an “indispensable asset” to the Gilas Women’s Team. 

The 6’0” basketball player was born on Oct. 31, 2002 and was raised in a “tight-knit” family in Folsom, California, the bill added. Means’ great grandfather was a missionary doctor while her grandfather was born in Naga, Camarines Sur. She is also being eyed as a member of the women’s 3x3 team.