Angara, Puno bat for Kouame naturalization

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Sonny Angara has endorsed the proposed entry of Angelo Kouame to Gilas Pilipinas with his filing of a bill calling for the grant of Philippine citizenship to the standout from the Ivory Coast.

Angara, who is chairman of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, filed Senate Bill 1892 Thursday as part of the country’s ongoing effort to build up its national team for the FIBA World Cup country is hosting in 2023.

SB 1892 is a counterpart of House Bill 5951 filed by SBP vice chairman, Antipolo City Rep. Robbie Puno.

“We have seen what Kouame has accomplished as a member of the Ateneo Blue Eagles in the past three years, and his game continues to develop. We have not seen the full potential of Kouame yet, and his desire to continue developing his game here in the Philippines is something that is worth supporting,” Angara said.

“Ange has also shown a strong desire to continue living in the Philippines, which has been his home since 2016. I have no doubt he will provide contribution to Philippine hoops for many years to come.”