House approves bill granting Philippine citizenship to Angelo Kouame on final reading

The House of Representatives on Tuesday approved on third and final reading the proposed measure seeking to grant Philippine citizenship to Angelo "Ange" Kouame of the Ateneo Blue Eagles.

Voting 210-0-0, lawmakers approved House Bill 8632 which states that granting Philippine citizenship to Kouame will allow him to play for the national team for basketball as a naturalized athlete.

"He will be a great addition to Philippine basketball and the Philippine sporting community at large," the bill stated.

"The story of how he has overcome dire personal circumstances at an early age, and how he persevered in honoring his athletic skills exemplify the great Filipino values of perseverance, determination, resilience, and self-reliance," it added.

During the UAAP Season 82, Kouame averaged 12.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, 2.9 blocks, and 1.4 assists for the Blue Eagles. — BM, GMA News