Committee on Justice and Human Rights (May 6, 2026)

[3:33] of the Committee on Justice and Human Rights is hereby resumed. It's a resumption and continuation [3:44] of our previous hearing on citizenship bills. The last hearing was March 3, 2026. [3:55] We shall focus on the following bills for our hearing today. House Bill No. 6644, [4:03] an act granting Philippine citizenship to Matthew James Ramos, introduced by Representatives [4:10] Luis Trot, D.O.D. III, Luis Trot, Tanwatco, and Suan. Senate Bill 1613, an act granting Philippine [4:20] citizenship to Matthew James Ramos, introduced by Senator Bongo. House Bill No. 6639, an act [4:28] granting Philippine citizenship to Benny Francois Boatwright III, introduced by Representative [4:35] D.V., Marcos, Luis Trot, Tanwatco, and Suan, and Senate Bill 1595, an act granting Philippine [4:45] citizenship to Benny Francois Boatwright III, introduced by Senators Pia Cayetano, Alan Peter [4:54] Cayetano, Christopher Bongo. We have been informed by the staff of Senator Jingo Estrada that he [5:01] will be joining us in today's hearing. We have also been informed by the staff of Senator [5:07] Bongo, who has requested, and we have agreed to allowing him to proceed with his participation [5:15] via online Zoom meeting. May we request the Committee Secretary at this point, Attorney [5:21] Mortel, to acknowledge the presence and place on record our invited resource persons. You [5:29] have the floor, Attorney Mortel. [5:30] Yes, good morning, Mr. Chairman. [5:32] Good morning, Mr. Chairman. [5:36] For the record, we invited the Department of Justice, but they sent us their regrets and [5:41] will just instead be submitting a position paper, sir. [5:45] From the Department of Foreign Affairs for this morning, we have Executive Director for Policy, [5:51] Mr. Dino M. Oblena. Sir, good morning. Please also kindly acknowledge once your name is called. [5:57] Good morning, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, sir. Also with him is Principal Assistant, Ms. Attorney [6:04] Renz, Aldrich Alinas, and Mary Joy Yuan. Good morning, sir. [6:09] In the same vein, sir, the Office of the Solicitor General was also invited. However, they submitted [6:18] a letter, which we are in receipt of, dated May 5, stating that they have no ground for [6:26] opposing the applications for the Philippine citizenship of Mr. Ramos and Mr. Boatwright. [6:35] From the National Bureau of Investigation, we have the Regional Director, Christopher M. Hernandez. [6:41] Sir. Also with him is Attorney Alan Glenn A. Akal. From the Bureau of Immigration, they are represented [6:51] this morning by Attorney Israel De La Cruz and Mr. John Elmer Joseph Perez. Good morning, Paul. [6:58] From the Philippine Olympic Committee, we have Mr. Jose Ponciano Malonzo. Good morning, sir. [7:05] From the Philippine National Police, we have the Chief of the SIDDDIDM of the PNP, Sir Earl B. Castillo. Good morning, sir. [7:15] With him is Sir Dominador M. Matalang. Good morning, sir. [7:20] And the Legal Officers Esther Correo and Faith M. Kabibihan. Good morning, sir. [7:28] Also, Mr. Chairman, I think the Honorable Mariano Michael Velarde Jr. from the Philippine Olympic Committee [7:34] has just arrived. Good morning, Mr. Chair. [7:39] From the Philippine Sports Commission, we have Commissioner Matthew Gaston, sir. [7:47] From the Manager of the Aguilas Filipinas and Program Director and Team Manager, Mr. Al-Francis Chua, sir. [8:00] With him is the Representative of the SBP Executive Director, Ms. Erika Kaitlin D. [8:09] From the Philippine Wrestling Association of the Philippines, we have the President, Mr. Arthur Alvin Aguilar. [8:20] And with him is the Secretary General, Mr. Joaquin Alfonso Prado. [8:27] As for our applicants for naturalization, this morning we have Mr. Matthew James Ramos. [8:33] And with him is Mr. Crescente Ramos, Ms. Riley Bell, Ms. Susan Bell, and Ms. Sean Bell. [8:39] And also, we have Mr. Benny François Boatwright III, and he is with the Aguilas Team Coordinator, Mr. Sander Gubat. [8:50] That is all, Mr. Chairman. Good morning. [8:52] Yes, thank you. [8:54] Attorney Mortel, did the DOJ explain why they are unable to attend today's hearing? [9:00] Via SMS, sir, they just mentioned that they have an equally important meeting. [9:06] However, they will be sending their position paper on the matter, sir. [9:10] I don't see why there is an equally important meeting for them not to send a representative to this hearing. [9:19] May we instruct the Secretary to request the DOJ to explain why they are absent in today's hearing. [9:31] We will not allow agencies to simply disregard or ignore this committee's invitations. [9:39] It is unacceptable that you have an entire department that cannot send a representative to the Senate Committee hearing of the Committee on Justice and Human Rights. [9:53] For the record, Mr. Committee Secretary and to our colleagues. [9:58] We now proceed with this representation as chairmen. [10:02] Before that, we acknowledge the presence of Senator Jingoy Estrada, a champion of Philippine sports in the Senate. [10:14] But before that, may we allow, we would like to begin with our opening statement. [10:21] Good morning, everyone. [10:53] That's right. [11:24] Again, to don their colors and, God willing, the colors of our flag. [11:29] Matthew, on the other hand, was born in Naperville, Illinois, to a Filipino father, Chris Crescente Holandai Ramos. [11:39] He has etched his name in wrestling history as a cadet world champion and NCAA All-American, [11:48] toppling legends and lifting Purdue University to new heights while proudly declaring his desire to wrestle for the Philippines. [11:57] Through basketball and wrestling, through sports, Benny and Matthew have chosen to carry our flag into the most demanding arenas of global competition. [12:08] Sports can be one of the purest languages of nationalism and patriotism. [12:13] In victory and victory and defeat, we gather around the same three stars and the sun. [12:18] We sing the same lupang hinirang and we feel the same pulse of pride for the nation whose name is stitched across the athlete's chest or thigh. [12:29] On a personal capacity, I was an athlete in my high school and college days, also played university volleyball in the university, the UAAP. [12:42] And so, I value this opportunity for young athletes to compete for our country. [12:53] Today, we will ask Benny and Matthew about their desire to be granted citizenship, how it will strengthen our national teams, [13:01] and how we are expanding the circle of those who call themselves Filipino and are willing to give their prime years, their talents, and their dreams to our beloved Philippines. [13:10] With that, Senator Jinguo, you have an opening statement. [13:16] Senator Estrada has the floor. [13:18] You have the floor. [13:19] Thank you, Mr. Chair. [13:20] Good morning, Mr. Chair, and to all our resource persons present here today. [13:24] Pursuant to the legislative authority under our Constitution, [13:29] the Congress of the Philippines has the authority to grant Filipino citizenship to certain foreign nationals [13:34] in recognition of their exemplary service or immense contribution to the nation. [13:40] In this hearing, we will be discussing the application for citizenship of Mr. Benny Boatwright, [13:45] an outstanding basketball player, and Mr. Matthew James Ramos, a professional wrestler. [13:52] There is a need to emphasize that granting Filipino citizenship confers full rights as a Filipino citizen under our Constitution. [14:01] This privilege, given to deserving foreigners involved in sports, [14:05] carries with it the responsibility to carry the national flag in the international competitions. [14:10] The combination of world-class skill and Pusong Pinoy would definitely give us a good standing in the international stage. [14:19] And as a sports enthusiast myself, this presentation continuously supports measure that promotes better conditions of athletes [14:28] and provide development to the sports industry. [14:30] With this, I am looking forward on the discussion this morning. [14:33] Thank you, Mr. Chair. [14:34] Thank you, Senator Estrada, for the opening statement. [14:38] We can now proceed with the hearing proper. [14:42] May we hear first from the SBP. [14:47] Do you have a position paper on the application for citizenship of Mr. Boatwright? [14:56] Go ahead. [14:56] Yes, Mr. Chair. [14:58] So, for Mr. Boatwright, we intend to naturalize him or promote his naturalization so that he can play for the Gilas Filipinas team. [15:10] Specifically, this Olympic cycle where we're trying to qualify for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. [15:18] And as mentioned earlier, he has been playing for the San Miguel Peer Men. [15:24] I believe he won a championship back in 2023. [15:28] And he is now playing again for San Miguel and in fact has a game tonight in the PBA. [15:36] Okay, good luck. [15:39] From Gilas, Mr. Chua, do you have a position paper or do you share the SBP's position? [15:46] With Erica D. [15:48] Okay, thank you. [15:48] The Philippine Sports Commission, do you have any position paper on the applications of both Mr. Boatwright and Mr. Ramos? [15:58] Sir, we more than welcome them to become Filipinos and to help us hopefully achieve Olympic medals for us. [16:06] Thank you. [16:06] Sorry, I jumped. [16:08] The Wrestling Association of the Philippines, with respect to Mr. Ramos, do you have a position paper or a manifestation? [16:16] Go ahead. [16:16] Well, yes, sir. [16:17] We would, it's our dream to have him represent our country. [16:21] He's going to be a sterling example for our athletes here in the Philippines. [16:24] He's not just number one in the U.S. beating all the legends there. [16:28] He's also an honor student as well. [16:30] So it'll be a sterling example. [16:31] We'd love to have him, especially with him on board. [16:34] We're going to be pure medalists in the Olympics. [16:37] Okay. [16:37] And when is the Olympics? [16:41] 2028, sir. [16:43] 2028? [16:43] Yes, sir. [16:44] Okay. [16:45] Go ahead, Mr. Prado. [16:49] Hello, sir. [16:49] Same with President Alvin. [16:53] Chair, we're just pushing through the manifestation. [16:55] Yes, of course, sir. [16:56] Okay. [16:56] Thank you. [16:57] From the POC, go ahead, Mr. Velarde. [17:03] Good morning, Mr. Chair, your honors. [17:05] From the part of POC, we have no negative comment, and we actually support the bills [17:12] for naturalization of both athletes. [17:15] Okay. [17:15] Thank you. [17:16] We proceed now with Mr. Malonso, you share, I understand, or would you like? [17:20] Yes, sir. [17:21] We are one with a motion of Mr. Velarde in the POC. [17:24] Okay. [17:24] Can we now have the DFA? [17:26] Do you have a position paper? [17:28] Good morning, Mr. Chair. [17:28] The DFA acknowledges the legislative support to grant the Philippine citizenship to the [17:34] two candidates, and we note the intent of the proposed measure to provide an opportunity [17:39] for them to represent the Philippines in the area of the sports. [17:43] We have earlier provided our paper also. [17:46] We have no negative information on that. [17:49] Thank you, Mr. Oblena. [17:53] The Immigration Bureau, Mr. De La Cruz. [17:57] Good morning, Mr. Chair. [17:58] The Bureau of Immigration respectfully manifests that based on our available records, since [18:04] Mr. Benny Francois Botwright and Mr. Matthew James Ramos has no derogatory records with [18:15] the Bureau and no pyramid immigration laws violation attributable to their name, we respectfully [18:24] manifest that the Bureau of Immigration has no objection on the House bills granting Filipino [18:32] citizens to them, Your Honor. [18:35] Thank you, Mr. De La Cruz. [18:37] We proceed with the NBI. [18:38] Attorney Akal, do you have a position paper or manifestation? [18:43] We manifest that we have no objection as to the passing of the bill granting Filipino citizenship [18:52] to both Mr. Ramos and Mr. Botwright, Mr. Ceyron. [18:59] Thank you, Attorney Akal. [19:01] PNP, Colonel, what's his name? [19:07] PNP, Colonel Castillo, you have the floor, sir? [19:10] Yes, sir. [19:11] To the honorable members of the Committee on Justice and Human Rights, particularly as [19:16] a system, Chair President Honorable Francis Pangilinan, to Honorable Senator Jingo Yerci [19:22] to Estrada, sir, and to all distinguished attendees present in this morning, maganda gumaga po. [19:27] I am Police Colonel Earl B. Castillo, the Chief School for Investigations and Detective [19:32] Development, Directorate for Investigations and Detective Management. [19:37] Mr. Chair, first and foremost, on behalf of our Chief PNP, Police General Hussi Melanchunertatis, [19:43] Jr., we express our sincere gratitude for the invitation to participate into these proceedings. [19:49] The Philippine National Police reaffirms its unwavering commitment to support this Committee [19:53] and its noble objectives of promoting justice, accountability, and the role of law. [19:57] In compliance with the request for verifications and record checking from the crime-related [20:02] databases of the National Police, this office respectfully certifies that based on available [20:07] records and database queries conducted as of this date, no derogatory criminal record [20:13] or entry was found against the following individuals. [20:16] Mr. Matthew James Ramos, Mr. Bini, Francois Boothright, the third. [20:21] This certification is issued based solely on existing interest in the PNP crime reporting [20:25] and investigative databases at the time of verification. [20:28] It is issued for whatever legal purpose it may serve and does not constitute a guarantee [20:32] of the subject's complete personal, administrative, immigration, or foreign records beyond the [20:38] jurisdiction and scope of the Philippine National Police Information Systems. [20:42] The Philippine National Police assures this Committee of its continued cooperation [20:46] Thank you, Mr. Chairman. [20:48] Thank you, Mr. Chairman. [20:49] Thank you, Colonel. [20:50] Thank you, Colonel. [20:51] Please, Colonel Castillo. [20:52] Okay, so we're done with the government agencies and the sports organizations. [21:01] We now go to the two applicants. [21:03] Do you have an opening statement or a manifestation, Mr. Ramos? [21:08] Would you like to address this committee? [21:12] It is an honor to be here. [21:13] Thank you, Chairman. [21:15] And I'm just very blessed to be here. [21:18] Thank you. [21:18] Would you like to elaborate on why you want to be a citizen of the Philippines? [21:24] Yes, sir. [21:25] This stems back to when I was a child and hearing from my tatai and a little history with my [21:35] Lola, my Lolo, they sacrificed and they left the Philippines to the United States and they [21:44] sacrificed and left their seven siblings, including my tatai. [21:49] And hearing this as a child engraved in me that you may not have everything and you need to [22:00] practice the gratitude and that my father taught me that, you know, he didn't have everything [22:09] in the Philippines and but he had dreams and he tells me this every single day. [22:15] What do you believe in? [22:16] What are your dreams? [22:17] And I started wrestling when I was four years old and hearing this and learning from my [22:24] grandparents, praying the rosary and I, it, it made me want to be a citizen of the Philippines [22:33] and I live with that every single day, being a wrestler and there's, there's purpose in my [22:40] life. [22:40] It is to, it's bigger than myself. [22:44] I need to be selfless and I learned this, the Filipino way. [22:48] And from a child growing up wrestling, it was, um, my family that has helped me get to where [23:01] I am today. [23:02] And it's, I know that the dreams that I have to be the best in the world to bring back [23:08] gold medals. [23:09] I didn't get the results when I started wrestling. [23:13] I lost a lot of matches, but my family kept telling me every single day, keep at it, keep [23:21] learning, keep practicing gratitude. [23:25] And I stick with that with myself. [23:27] And throughout the years, I started to get more successful in the sport. [23:32] And I was able, and now I'm blessed to be a coach and an athlete. [23:37] So I can give back to not just myself, but to the people of the Philippines as well, which [23:44] is why I want to be a Filipino citizen. [23:46] So for that manifestation, Mr. Ramos, uh, can, okay, please. [23:54] Uh, and then we will, uh, after Mr. Ramos, then we can have, and then the questions we can [23:59] have, uh, thank you, Mr. [24:00] Chair. [24:00] Go ahead, uh, Senator. [24:02] Your father is a Filipino citizen. [24:06] From where? [24:07] Uh, since your father is a Filipino citizen. [24:12] And why didn't you apply for a dual citizenship? [24:17] Why didn't I? [24:18] Yes. [24:19] Uh, at the time I, I didn't know as, as a child. [24:23] And as I started to become, as I started to become more aware of the world and my heritage [24:31] and starting to learn. [24:32] And once I made my first trip out to the Philippines, it was more than my expectation. [24:37] And it, it, it really stoked that flame in my heart and just being out here and all the [24:46] stories that he told me and, and seeing it in person. [24:49] Now, now I more than ever want to. [24:54] Your mother is an American. [24:55] Okay. [24:56] Okay. [24:56] Your father is still alive. [24:59] Not today. [24:59] Oh, all right. [25:01] Okay. [25:03] It is common for Filipinos to aspire for, uh, American citizenship, but here you are an [25:09] American citizen aspiring to become a, uh, Filipino citizen. [25:14] Can you convince me or convince us why you deserve to be granted a, uh, Filipino citizenship? [25:20] Uh, go back to also when I was little and watching Manny Pacquiao fighting and I wasn't [25:30] in boxing growing up, but in the mixed martial arts world, there's many elements and I, I'm [25:38] blessed that I am in love with wrestling and it is part of my life. [25:43] And seeing what Manny Pacquiao did for the Philippines and what he did to inspire the whole entire [25:54] world, but more specifically the Philippines. [25:56] And that's one of my dreams is it's not for myself. [25:59] It's to inspire and I'm a coach as well. [26:02] So it's, it's more than myself. [26:04] I want to bring the next generation of the Philippines for them to know that they can achieve any dream [26:12] that they have, no matter what it is, whatever placement in life they're at, if they're poor, [26:17] if they have money that no matter what the situation is, when you have those dreams and [26:23] you have a family behind your back in the support system, you can do anything in this world. [26:28] That's my dream. [26:29] Is that your mother? [26:32] No. [26:33] No. [26:34] Where's your mother? [26:35] She is at home in the United States. [26:38] In Illinois? [26:39] In Illinois. [26:40] Do you speak Tagalog or any native dialect? [26:43] I am working on it, working on it. [26:46] Tagalog? [26:47] Opo. [26:48] Kunti lang. [26:49] Kunti lang. [26:49] What few words do you know? [26:53] Oh, uh, salama, adobo. [26:57] That was my, that was the first food that got me into all of Filipino dishes. [27:02] But, you know, salama, salama po, my lolo, lola. [27:08] What favorite Filipino dish do you eat? [27:12] What was that? [27:13] What favorite Filipino dish that you eat? [27:16] Oh, there's many, but I eat rice, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, fork and spoon, soy sauce [27:23] if there's no sabao. [27:25] I had balut for the first time, and I am a fan of balut, even though some people say [27:31] they're scared of it. [27:32] I love balut, good protein, diniguan, and yeah, those are my favorites. [27:39] Cindy, Cindy. [27:40] Is the woman behind you your girlfriend? [27:43] Correct. [27:44] Is it your girlfriend? [27:45] With the permission of Senator Jinggoy, so you consider Manny Pacquiao as a role model? [27:57] Correct. [27:57] Okay. [27:58] But I think you'll beat him in wrestling. [28:01] Why are you, sorry, why are you interested in wrestling? [28:04] Why not boxing? [28:06] Why not other sport? [28:07] I've tried, I was blessed that my, what's your height? [28:11] Uh, five, six. [28:12] Ah, hindi pende si basketball. [28:13] Six, five, seven. [28:15] Tiptoes, five, seven. [28:16] Tiptoes, five, seven. [28:18] Why are you interested in wrestling? [28:20] Why not other sports like, uh, uh, boxing, et cetera? [28:25] I, I grew up trying every single sport. [28:28] My parents were, they tell me, you know what? [28:32] Do what makes you happy. [28:33] Try it all. [28:34] You know, they didn't force me into wrestling. [28:36] They were very open. [28:38] Um, and I tried, uh, basketball. [28:41] And once everyone got as tall as Benny over here, it, uh, got a little difficult, uh, volleyball [28:48] as well. [28:49] Respect to you, Chairman. [28:50] That is a very hard sport. [28:52] And I didn't make the team in volleyball, but it was an amazing time. [28:55] Uh, soccer, I did as well. [28:58] Football, um, I also train other mixed martial arts, jujitsu. [29:04] Alvin is a specialist in that area. [29:06] Uh, I also train boxing and I still do all the other elements of mixed martial arts, jujitsu, [29:13] kickboxing, boxing. [29:15] But right now in my life, I know that sticking to wrestling and staying consistent every single [29:21] day has gotten me further and 1% better each day that I train it. [29:27] And I know in my heart that when I can stay at it, I can do anything in this sport and [29:32] I can be the best in the world. [29:37] The, uh, wrestling association of the Philippines, uh, supporting you. [29:41] Yes, sir. [29:41] How? [29:43] Um, training. [29:46] Also, uh, they, they give me different opportunities. [29:50] To go to their facilities, um, helping me. [29:54] Where do you practice? [29:55] Rizal. [29:56] In Rizal Memorial. [29:58] How is the gym in Rizal Memorial? [30:00] It's good. [30:01] It's good. [30:02] Really? [30:02] Yes. [30:04] So what the beauty of wrestling is, is you don't need a million dollar room. [30:11] You don't need to have the best equipment in the world. [30:15] Wrestling, you need a mat and you need someone, a partner in front of you that knows what they're [30:20] doing and you can do anything. [30:21] And that's also another reason that sparks my belief in wrestling because it's, you don't [30:26] need money. [30:26] You don't need the fame. [30:28] You just need to have a strong mind and a strong dream in your mind and you can stay [30:33] consistent with it. [30:35] And that's what I believe in. [30:38] Yeah. [30:38] Sir, what kind of support do you give Mr. Ramos? [30:42] Hi. [30:43] Good morning, sir. [30:43] Yes, sir. [30:44] Uh, we, we've actually, we've flown him in several times. [30:47] He's done a lot of seminars, not just for the team, but for our grassroots movements as well. [30:51] We brought him around different gyms. [30:53] He's always willing to share what his skills are. [30:56] Um, he has a very, very high technical level. [30:58] So he really helps us and everybody in the team. [31:01] Uh, we've already, um, negotiated with our international federation with this transfer [31:05] of citizenship because our international federation requires a lot of stuff before we transfer his [31:11] citizenship. [31:12] And now it's just been pending, um, hopefully, um, he gets his citizenship and then we can [31:18] move forward with our international federation already and he can, uh, properly represent [31:22] us in the Olympics, sir. [31:27] You know, recite the Lupang Hinira. [31:29] I've been working very hard on the Lupang Hinira. [31:35] First two sentences. [31:36] Just a few questions for Mr. [31:55] For Matt. [31:56] Um, uh, did you not think of pursuing, uh, the Olympic dream as a U.S. citizen? [32:04] I did. [32:06] And this is another one of the, uh, there was a lot of people telling me, oh no, don't [32:12] go to the Philippines, stick with the United States. [32:16] But like I said earlier, it's, it's drilled into my roots. [32:20] It, it's what I've been taught from my parents, my grandparents. [32:25] And I won't let that voice, other voices tell me how to live the dream that I want just to [32:34] represent the Philippines and bring gold to this country and happiness. [32:39] And, uh, uh, were you recruited to be part of the U.S. Olympic team? [32:45] I understand, you know, you're an all American. [32:47] Yes. [32:48] No, yes. [32:48] Uh, the USA and USA wrestling specifically, uh, they are pretty upset with me with going [32:57] to the Philippines, but I am a high believer in, in the dreams that I want. [33:03] And I communicate that pretty well with them. [33:06] And they've given me, um, training camps with their Olympic training center and many [33:12] other, uh, options. [33:14] But, you know, I don't let the, I don't let material things swoo what's really important [33:19] to me. [33:20] Are you familiar? [33:22] Well, you're probably not familiar, but there is a Filipino saying, uh, look soon and to go. [33:28] What's that mean? [33:30] The literal translation is, uh, the jumping of your blood, uh, your Filipino blood. [33:37] Uh, yes. [33:38] So that probably explains why you are, uh, aspiring for the Olympic, uh, gold as a Filipino [33:47] rather than as an American, the great saying, the jump of your blood, the jump of blood, but [33:53] of course you're not in a high jump or long jump wrestling, but just the same. [33:58] Um, and, uh, 2028 is the, uh, Olympics. [34:05] Where will it be held? [34:07] Los Angeles. [34:08] Oh, so that would be poetic justice. [34:11] You, you compete with me in the U S as a Filipino, um, and, uh, win the goal. [34:19] Yes. [34:20] Okay. [34:20] Um, additional questions. [34:22] Yes. [34:22] One more. [34:23] Mr. Aguilar, how many wrestlers do you have in your stable? [34:26] Uh, so right now under our payroll in the PSC, we have a 24, but aside from that, we, uh, [34:32] we support everybody all the way until four year olds until now that's under our federation. [34:37] Uh, we fly them on our own dime. [34:39] We raise money for them. [34:40] Uh, we have training camps for them ourselves. [34:43] We fly them all over the world as well, sir, to compete. [34:45] All Filipinos. [34:46] Of course. [34:47] Yes, sir. [34:47] Yes. [34:47] And do you consider Matthew Ramos as a gold mine? [34:51] Oh, yes, sir. [34:52] What do you call it, sir? [34:52] Because he, he beat the number one in the U S Spencer Lee. [34:56] Uh, I'll just share with everybody. [34:57] Spencer Lee is the, he's saying parang superstars or say U S. [35:01] Tinalo niya parang ano lang, kaya kaya niya. [35:04] And, uh, from that he was ranked number one in the U S. [35:07] And then, uh, you know, of course, like he said earlier, the USA Olympics, uh, the U S, [35:11] the USA wrestling really wanted him for the team, but, uh, you know, Pusong Pinoy talaga. [35:17] He really wanted to represent us. [35:19] And because of that, he had to, he had to stop competition, actual competition for several years [35:25] just to be able to represent the country. [35:27] So he sacrificed his whole career just to be here, just to be able to represent our country. [35:32] Kaya, sir, it's very, very important. [35:33] Sana if we can get him talaga, sir. [35:35] Are you a wrestler? [35:36] Yes, sir. [35:37] Ano eh, nag-tune up pa siya? [35:38] Yes, sir. [35:40] Sino kalaban niya? [35:41] Sir, he, he's an active wrestler pa rin sa U S, sir. [35:44] Pati dito. [35:44] No, right now. [35:45] Hindi, wala, wala siyang tune-up game? [35:47] Wala pa, sir. [35:48] Wala pa, sir. [35:48] Wala pa, sir. [35:49] Pero pag meron na, sir, pag, ano, pag napa na, labaran kaya natin ito. [35:53] Just, just to clarify, so he's, if he beat the number one in the U.S., then he's, is [36:02] he ranked as the number one in the U.S.? [36:04] He was ranked number one for a while, right? [36:05] Yes. [36:06] During his, during his active career in the NCAA, he was ranked number one. [36:09] Okay, so how does that, uh, in terms of age, uh, you're now 24? [36:16] 25. [36:17] 25. [36:18] Is that not, uh, a bit on the upside of the age? [36:22] No, that's perfect lang, sir. [36:22] A lot of the, uh, are gold medalists in the Olympics. [36:25] They're wrestling, uh, 28, 29 years old sila, sir. [36:29] Okay. [36:29] And he hasn't reached his peak yet, sir. [36:31] Gumagaling pa rin yan, sir. [36:32] Sobrang galing pa rin yan. [36:33] Okay, okay. [36:34] And, uh, with respect to our, uh, Olympic, uh, experience as in wrestling, have we had [36:41] any, any, uh, participation? [36:45] I'm sure wala pang medals, no? [36:47] Wala pang medals, sir. [36:48] But have we participated? [36:49] We, we've had, uh, because for the longest time, we, we, we didn't even try out, uh, wrestling. [36:54] But when I became president, we started trying out already in the Olympics and the Philippines [36:58] already started winning in the Olympic trials, but we didn't make it in the Olympics, unfortunately. [37:02] Um, then, uh, so, uh, where there's several events there where we excel right now as grappling. [37:09] So we have world champions, Asian champions, marami na. [37:12] So now that with Matt there, and then of course with our new coaches, papalo na yung wrestling, [37:17] sir. [37:17] Then when, this is the one in the Olympics, so this is what's really important for us, sir. [37:21] And I think because height is not required in wrestling. [37:25] Yes, sir. [37:26] Yes, sir. [37:26] As, uh, Matt is, um, you know, exhibit A. [37:30] Yes, sir. [37:30] Then it, it should be an opportunity for many of our kababayans to likewise excel our young people, no? [37:37] Yes, sir. [37:38] Plus, uh, if Matt becomes the poster boy for wrestling in the Philippines, and he said earlier, [37:44] it's not expensive to, uh, you know, to, to, uh, promote wrestling. [37:51] All you need is a mat. [37:52] Oh, sorry. [37:53] That's you. [37:53] No, but, uh, and, uh, you know, you don't need a lot of, uh, a lot of infrastructure, [38:01] unlike basketball or track and field, uh, and all the other, you know, sports, but this [38:08] one can actually be popularized without a, a big cost to it. [38:13] Yes, sir. [38:13] And actually it's also another event that we have, it's called beach wrestling. [38:17] Beach lang kailangan, sir. [38:18] That's right. [38:19] And we have so many beaches by in our country. [38:21] So we're developing that as well. [38:23] Yeah. [38:23] And if we, the fifth largest coastline in the entire planet, a lot of beaches. [38:28] So we should also be able to come up with a lot of world champions in beach wrestling. [38:32] And, uh, Mr. Ramos, Matt, you said you are also coaching. [38:38] Opo. [38:38] So, uh, will you therefore, you know, in the long run train the next generation of Filipino [38:45] wrestlers? [38:45] Is that part of your maybe, uh, lifelong advocacy? [38:51] Yes, sir. [38:51] Okay. [38:52] Okay. [38:53] Uh, thank you. [38:55] So you're eyeing to be an Olympian. [38:58] What was that? [38:58] Are you eyeing to be an Olympian to participate in the, uh, Los Angeles, Los Angeles Olympics? [39:04] Ang wrestling ba kasama sa Asian Games, Southeast Asian Games? [39:08] Yes, sir. [39:09] Kasama sa Southeast Asia and atsaka sa Asian Games, sir. [39:11] All right. [39:12] When is the next Asian Games? [39:14] Uh, we have one, uh, this coming year, sir. [39:17] In September. [39:18] So if he gets his citizenship, will he be competing in the Asian Games now? [39:22] Yeah. [39:22] Well, probably we just have to work it out with our international federation, sir. [39:26] Okay. [39:26] So our first step talaga before anything else is really the passport first. [39:29] And then from there, that's when the process starts with the international federation. [39:32] Our international federation is called the UWW United World Wrestling. [39:37] Okay. [39:38] Thank you. [39:38] Um, uh, thank you, Matt. [39:41] Uh, we can now proceed to Benny, uh, both right. [39:44] Do you have, do you have, uh, a opening statement, uh, Benny? [39:48] Please, you have the floor. [39:49] Go ahead. [39:52] All right. [39:53] Thank you guys for, um, thank you, chairman, for having me. [39:55] Um, yeah. [39:56] So, I mean, I grew up in Southern California and there was a big Filipino community there. [40:01] So just growing up, I've had plenty of, um, Filipino friends. [40:06] I'm actually playing against my, uh, ex-teammate from high school tonight, um, Jerika Amnisi. [40:12] So, um, I'm familiar with the culture just growing up. [40:16] And, you know, two, two and a half years ago, three years ago, when I played here in the PBA, [40:23] um, I felt at home, um, as soon as I got off the plane, I was, um, I appreciate everybody's support. [40:31] And, you know, I just love, I love playing here. [40:33] I love being here. [40:35] And, um, but yeah, I'm excited for the opportunity. [40:40] Uh, and how long have you been playing with the, uh, uh, Philippine, uh, uh, basketball league? [40:47] So I played here. [40:48] When was your first, uh, uh, stint? [40:51] I think it was 2023. [40:52] So 2020, so three years now, uh, on your third year. [40:56] Uh, no, no, I, so I played in 2023 and then that was for, uh, that one conference. [41:01] And then this is my first time coming back. [41:04] Oh, okay. [41:04] Yeah. [41:05] Okay. [41:05] So, uh, 2023 was your first and last stint. [41:09] Yeah, yeah. [41:10] That was my first one. [41:11] Yeah. [41:11] And now your second one is this year. [41:14] This is my second one. [41:15] Yeah. [41:15] Okay. [41:16] Uh, and, uh, uh, apart from being exposed to Filipinos in, uh, Southern California, as well [41:25] as, uh, in your first stint here in the Philippines, is there anything, uh, any special reason [41:30] why you wish to be, uh, naturalized as a Filipino? [41:34] As far as what? [41:35] Just the, uh, your citizenship. [41:37] Is there any other particular reason apart from why I want to? [41:40] Yes. [41:41] Yeah. [41:41] Yeah. [41:41] Just, um, the first, number one is the people. [41:44] And two is what about the people? [41:46] Um, just people's energy. [41:48] Everybody's so loving and warm and, um, It's not like that in Southern California? [41:53] Not everything. [41:54] I mean, the weather's sunny and warm, but. [41:56] Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. [41:57] Okay. [41:57] Um, you know, and, uh, the grit, you know, as far as, you know, competing, um, I, I resonate [42:05] with that. [42:07] Um, what do you mean by grit? [42:09] Grit, like intensity. [42:11] Like, yeah. [42:12] Tough, tough. [42:13] Everybody. [42:14] And it's different, um, with respect to, uh, Los Angeles? [42:18] No, I mean, of course, of course there is, there's, yeah, you know, Los Angeles, people [42:24] can have grit, same as, um, Philippines. [42:26] It's just something that I notice here, you know, so, um, it's probably a raw grit. [42:33] Yeah. [42:33] Rather than English grit. [42:35] Yeah. [42:35] Okay. [42:36] Yeah. [42:36] Go ahead. [42:36] Go ahead. [42:36] Please. [42:37] Yeah. [42:37] You know, just, um, everything this also, I'm Christian. [42:41] So the faith, um, this is, uh, um, um, I love how with SMB, with, uh, San Miguel, [42:48] we pray before, uh, before practice, pray after practice. [42:52] I feel like that's, that's very important for me. [42:55] And then the name of your, it's the same. [42:58] Yep. [42:58] The name of your team. [42:59] Yep. [43:00] San Miguel. [43:01] San Miguel. [43:01] Okay. [43:02] Go ahead. [43:02] Please proceed. [43:03] Yeah. [43:03] Um, and you know, the food, I love the food here, especially adobo, synagogue. [43:12] Um, uh, but look, no, but look, no, but look, no, but look, I'm sorry. [43:18] No, but look, I had to slow down on the mango shakes. [43:23] I was drinking too many mango shakes when I first got here. [43:26] I had to slow down. [43:27] Um, yeah. [43:29] I mean. [43:30] Do you have a, uh, Filipino girlfriend? [43:33] Um, no, not yet. [43:35] Can you introduce me to someone? [43:36] Um, I'm a bash na naman ako rito. [43:45] Okay. [43:45] Mr. Cherry family. [43:47] Okay. [43:47] Assuming, uh, Congress grants you a, uh, a Filipino citizenship, you know, and if you [43:53] retire after playing basketball, are you willing to stay in the Philippines? [43:58] Yeah, for sure. [43:59] For sure. [44:00] I'm actually, this is something I talk about with, like, my family, just, like, one day [44:04] being able to, like, do a camp, do a basketball camp here in the, in the Philippines. [44:08] Um, you know, in, in areas that's probably less fortunate is going there and being able [44:15] to run a camp and, and, like, have basketball, teaching them basketball, even though they [44:20] already love basketball, but just. [44:21] Do you plan to retire in the Philippines? [44:23] I mean, that's, that's definitely something I would love to do. [44:26] For sure. [44:27] Because, uh, uh, of course, you know, Justin Brownlee, he, uh, he approved his, uh, citizenship [44:34] way back and, uh, he was willing to stay in the Philippines after his retirement. [44:39] Are you willing to do the same? [44:41] Yes, for sure. [44:42] Really? [44:43] Yeah. [44:44] Okay. [44:44] Yeah. [44:45] Well, after you play, after you retire, well, you'll go back to the United States. [44:53] Yeah, I mean, yeah, I have family in the United States, so it's definitely, I'll go back [44:57] home, um, at least to visit, but I, I would love to live here. [45:02] Right. [45:03] You better find a Filipina girlfriend, huh? [45:05] So you stay here. [45:07] Yeah. [45:07] Okay. [45:07] I heard you have some injuries. [45:11] Do you have some injuries? [45:12] Right now? [45:12] No. [45:12] Injuries. [45:14] I had. [45:15] I had, yeah, yeah, before. [45:16] What kind of injury? [45:17] So I had, um, I hurt my knee in, um, uh, college and G League, and then I had a surgery [45:24] on my heel, um, last year. [45:27] Are you 100%? [45:28] Yeah, for sure. [45:29] Healthy? [45:29] 100%. [45:30] What is your height? [45:32] 6'10". [45:32] 6'9". [45:33] You're Christian? [45:34] Christian. [45:35] Like Michael Phillips, huh? [45:37] Yeah. [45:38] So you know how to speak Tagalog, Filipino? [45:41] Uh, to keep the, uh, a little bit. [45:44] What Filipino words do you know? [45:46] It's a salamat, salamat, Paul. [45:48] Salamat, only salamat? [45:49] Yes, I. [45:51] What else? [45:52] Adobo, like you said. [45:54] So I heard you played for other teams aside from the PBA, uh, in, in abroad. [46:05] Where? [46:05] Yeah. [46:06] So, uh, this past year, I played in Taiwan, and I also played in South Korea. [46:13] So what can you contribute in GILAS? [46:16] Will your participation ensure victory for GILAS? [46:19] What can I, would you say? [46:20] Will your participation ensure victory for us? [46:23] Yeah, you know, it's a team. [46:24] It's not just me. [46:25] It's a team. [46:26] So, you know, hopefully I can, I'm gonna try to contribute as much as possible. [46:32] Uh, Miss, uh, Miss, ano, uh, Mr. Chua, Mr. Al Francis, does GILAS need an additional natural, naturalized player? [46:41] Ilan pa ba yung kailangan natin na naturalized player ng GILAS? [46:45] Uh, good morning, Mr. Chairman. [46:47] Actually, uh, mas madami, mas okay, no? [46:50] Uh, uh, like, for example, Japan, they got 15 naturalized na player, so they can choose kung anong pwede. [46:58] You know, Justin Brawley's only, um, 6'5", 6'6", yung mga kalaban namin doon is 7, 6'11", but they can afford to get at least 10. [47:08] Korea got 7. [47:10] Um, the last time that we played in SEA Games, I think, um, Cambodia? [47:15] Yeah, two years ago, Cambodia, they got six, uh, American players. [47:21] Um, in just, I'm not saying, um, sa atin talagang, inaano, in just two weeks, they got six players. [47:27] Um, kaya kailangan namin talaga siya because it's 6'10", and he's willing. [47:33] How many naturalized players are allowed to play in a game? [47:36] Just one, uh, Mr. Chairman. [47:38] Only one? [47:38] Opo. [47:39] One? [47:39] I defend it two at the same time. [47:41] Um, baka magamit natin siya sa this coming Asian Games, this coming September. [47:45] For example, si Brawley kasama, tsaka ito si Boatwright kasama, hindi pwede pagsamahin sa laro? [47:49] Hindi pwede. [47:50] Isang natural na player lang. [47:52] So, but in Asian Games, noong nag-gold kami, um, uh, before, si, si, uh, we, uh, ginamit natin yung si Brownlee, saka si Kwame, from Ateneo. [48:03] Yeah. [48:03] But now, if, um, kasama si Boatwright, we might use three. [48:08] Kesa we're the defending champion. [48:10] Kesa we're the defending champion. [48:10] Can they play at the same time? [48:11] Yes, yes, pwede. [48:13] Ganoon din yung mga kalaban natin, Mr. Chair. [48:16] Pwede din sila maglagay ng lima. [48:19] Lima? [48:20] Opo. [48:20] Lahat? [48:21] Opo. [48:21] Opo, saan bawal yung, saan, saan yung patakar na isa lang? [48:26] Sa FIBA po, sa FIBA. [48:27] Opo. [48:28] Pero sa Asian Games, in three games, pwede. [48:30] No, uh, Asian Games, not covered by FIBA. [48:32] No, not covered by FIBA. [48:34] So, SIA Games and Asian Games, we can put at least three. [48:39] Three, four. [48:40] Olympics. [48:41] Hindi pwede kasi under, ano, ata sila FIBA. [48:44] Patay tayo dun. [48:45] Mm. [48:45] Isa lang. [48:46] Isa lang po. [48:48] Pero kung, kasi kailangan natin isang malaki na, kasi, you know, Ben is very, um, [48:54] um, versatile, he can, he's a 6'10, but he can shoot three, he can dribble, he can rebound. [49:00] He can do a lot of things for his height. [49:04] At saka, mabait na bata po. [49:07] Bakit mabait? [49:09] What do you mean? [49:09] Kasi karamihan nung dumating dito dito, may toyo, eh. [49:13] Alam naman natin yun, di ba? [49:14] Alam, karamihan, sa tagal ko po sa basketball, madami pong, I think Alvin knows that too. [49:22] So, marami pong, mga attitude problem. [49:25] Mga entitled. [49:26] Opo. [49:27] Pag naglaro po, if they played like two games, a good game, lahat po, hingi na. [49:33] I agree, I agree. [49:36] Alam po ni Sen yan, na, that's why when he got, um, si Phillips, uh, tinasabi niya, nga, lapakabait na tao. [49:42] And eh, bihira po, you know, it's very rare. [49:45] Because if you're gonna get an import coming from a different country, like, [49:48] there's star players from their university or ex-NBA or ex-like this. [49:53] Pagdating ko rito, ipakagad. [49:55] Opo. [49:55] So, yeah, you know, kaya sinasabi ko, may bias, may discrimination, mga ganon, prejudice. [50:05] Opo, kaya sinasabi ko, kami nagpapasweldo sa inyo, mga Pilipino, kaya medyo tumino kayo. [50:12] And in Benny's case? [50:15] He doesn't complain at all. [50:18] You know, actually, when we won a championship last 23rd, right? [50:22] Um, so, inahalap namin siya, kaso, he's playing in the different countries. [50:27] So, when I, when, when, when, we called him, like this. [50:32] So, may mga agent po yan, eh. [50:34] Um, separate agent magsasabi ng price, kung magkano, ganyan. [50:39] And then I told, I told G to call you. [50:41] I said, Benny, you know, we're just gonna pay you this amount. [50:44] You know, but your agent wants like this. [50:46] No problem. [50:47] I'll play. [50:48] I'll talk to him. [50:48] Naglaro siya kahit hindi po yung price yung gusto niya. [50:50] So, um, wala po, wala po kaming sakit ng ulo diyan. [50:55] For love of the sport and of the Philippines. [50:57] Opa, opa, opa, Mr. Chad. [50:59] Um, Benny, uh, you're not Caucasian. [51:02] What is your ancestry or, or, you know, your family originally from? [51:10] Yeah. [51:10] Just to get the sense of your, you know. [51:12] Yeah, my dad is black, my dad's African-American, and my mom's from Mexico. [51:16] So, okay, so it's an African-American, Latino, Latino, Latino. [51:23] Okay, okay, okay. [51:25] Thank you. [51:26] How did you discover, Benny? [51:29] Para niya na-discover? [51:31] Through agent, Mr. Chair, noong 2023, you know, for salmon. [51:37] But we were looking at his profile. [51:39] Kasi sa pagkuha po ng, ng, ng, ng import, ang papadala sa yung video, puro magagaling. [51:46] Pero pagdating mo dito, wala. [51:48] Even ex-NBA will play good in the, uh, sa tape. [51:52] Pagdating mo dito, yung hindi nila kaya yung, yung larong Pilipino. [51:57] Because, you know, yung, yung physicality and everything. [51:59] So, when I saw Benny, uh, 6'10, nakakatira sa labas sa balalayo. [52:05] Sabi ko, imposible yung 6'10 do. [52:06] So, kasi, you know, Ben, you know that, right? [52:08] If they're gonna tell us that you're 6'11, for sure you're gonna arrive here like you're 6'8, 6'9. [52:14] Laging sa street, so medaya, laging 2.5 to 2. [52:18] Kasi mas mataas sila, mas mataas ang presyo na uuwa. [52:21] Opo, kaya what, what, what, ang ginagawa po namin. [52:23] May inflation pala yung height. [52:25] Opo. [52:26] Kaya ang ginagawa po namin, kinukunan, uh, we're, uh, we're asking the agent to video you guys, uh, nakahiga. [52:36] Para makita namin na nakapaah. [52:37] Kasi sa PBA ho, dalawang klaseng conference natin. [52:40] Isang 6'6 below. [52:42] So, isang, isang, isang, ngayon, iniba namin, unlimited. [52:47] Now, Mr. Chair, pag sinabi namin, meda dating sa amin, 6'8. [52:51] Sabi? [52:52] Ay, kukunin namin yun. [52:53] Pagdating dito yung mga 6'5 plus lahat. [52:55] Hindi namin kailangan. [52:56] Laging medaya. [52:57] Isya po, nung sinabi niyang 6'10, nung sinukat po namin legit. [53:01] So, if he's wearing a rubber shoe, you should like 6'11 and a half or something, right? [53:05] Hindi lang pala po yung shaving, may height shaving to pala. [53:10] Yes, um, okay. [53:13] Go ahead. [53:14] No more, no more questions. [53:16] Okay. [53:17] Um, uh, out of topic, pwede. [53:20] Go ahead, go ahead, please. [53:21] Okay, Ms. D. [53:23] What happened to the women's basketball team? [53:26] Ba't parang nagkagulo-gulo kayo? [53:27] Kasi, I heard that maganda na yung takpo ng women's basketball team. [53:32] Tapos, biglaan yung tinanggal yung coach ng women's basketball team. [53:35] What happened? [53:36] Hindi naman po nagkagulo. [53:38] Um, it was a projected decision already earlier on, no? [53:43] Um, si Coach Patak, you know, we're very thankful for what he's done for Naguila's Women Program. [53:49] But he has been there for 10 years already. [53:51] And what usually happens when, um, a coach is there for that long is nagna-narrow na yung gap or opportunity to grow even more. [54:01] And, um, we also wanted to start investing more in our women's program. [54:06] And so, we're searching now for a foreign coach, um, who will be able to inject new knowledge into the program. [54:13] There's no politics involved, right? [54:15] No politics, sir. [54:16] All right. [54:16] Kasi maganda kasi, well, for me, I might be biased, but maganda naman yung patakbo ni Coach Pat, [54:23] women's basketball team. [54:25] And much to my surprise, biglaan yung tinanggal ng SPP as coach, as head coach. [54:32] But that's your internal problem. [54:34] Yes, sir. [54:34] Anyway, thank you. [54:35] Okay, thank you. [54:36] Um, Benny, have you been to Mexico? [54:41] Yes. [54:41] Um, several times? [54:43] Yeah, I played in Mexico. [54:44] Oh, okay. [54:45] For a couple months. [54:46] Yeah. [54:46] So, maybe that's one of the reasons why you feel an affinity to the Philippines. [54:51] Exactly. [54:52] Because, uh, we were actually, through the galleon trade, we were actually, uh, governed by Spain through Mexico. [55:00] So, when you arrived here in, uh, 2023, did you feel like, wait, this, this looks like Mexico? [55:07] Yes, yes, I did. [55:08] Actually, because I go on a lot of walks. [55:10] And I was like, I was walking around, like, the neighborhood and things of that nature. [55:14] I'm like, like, the Filipinos are really the Hispanics, like Mexicans of Asia. [55:20] So, like, I noticed that. [55:21] And I, like... [55:22] Do you speak Spanish? [55:23] Um, I'm not fluent, but I, you know, I can get by. [55:26] So, you understand when we call you Primo? [55:29] Yeah, yeah. [55:30] Yeah. [55:30] What's Primo? [55:31] What's Primo? [55:32] Primo is, uh... [55:34] Cousin. [55:35] Cousin. [55:35] Cousin. [55:36] Cousin, yeah. [55:36] So, in that sense, the Latin Americans and the Filipinos are Primo. [55:42] Yeah, right. [55:42] Prima. [55:43] We are, uh, in a sense, related. [55:45] Mm-hmm. [55:46] So, that may explain why, you know, you're, you know, you, you find, uh, the Philippines [55:52] like, you know, like home. [55:54] Yeah, for sure. [55:54] Are you familiar with when vehicles are backing up and they do this? [56:01] What's that? [56:01] Vehicles backing up. [56:03] Yeah. [56:03] And then somebody is knocking on the... [56:06] Uh, just so that they, he... [56:08] Are you familiar with that? [56:09] Yeah, like the slowdown. [56:10] Yeah, yeah. [56:11] And then stop. [56:12] Then stop, right. [56:13] Yeah. [56:13] They do that in Mexico, right? [56:15] Uh, I didn't drive, but I think, I think so. [56:17] Yes. [56:17] Because they do that in the Philippines. [56:20] Okay. [56:21] Uh, and the reason why I know that is because a classmate of mine who was Latin American [56:27] and Mexican, when he came to the Philippines and they did it to my car as I was backing [56:32] up, he said, oh, this is like Mexico. [56:34] They do, they do that. [56:35] So, anyway, so, yeah, Primo and Prima. [56:38] And that's, go ahead, go ahead, please. [56:40] Mr. Benny, what do you love most in the Philippines? [56:45] What do I love most? [56:47] Um, I mean, there's a lot of things I love. [56:50] Um, I would say, I would say the people, the hospitality, the hospitality, yes. [56:56] I think that's probably my favorite, um, the love for basketball. [57:01] I love that. [57:02] Yeah. [57:04] You need more? [57:05] Huh? [57:06] Do you need more? [57:07] In the road? [57:08] Do you need more? [57:09] Of course. [57:10] Okay. [57:10] I keep going. [57:11] As much as you can do. [57:12] All right. [57:13] Food, the weather. [57:16] Actually, it's a little, it's a little hot. [57:18] It's a little hot right now. [57:19] Very hot. [57:20] Very hot. [57:21] Very hot. [57:22] But that's okay. [57:23] Um. [57:23] As long as you're in the beach. [57:25] It's okay. [57:25] The beach. [57:26] I've been to Baraka before. [57:28] I need to go to a couple more islands, though. [57:31] Have you been to other provinces in the Philippines, like Cebu, Bohol, the Visayas area? [57:37] I've been to, um, I forgot, I forgot the name of the city, but I've been to the mountains. [57:41] It's like. [57:42] Baggio. [57:43] Baggio? [57:43] Yeah. [57:44] There you go. [57:44] Yeah. [57:45] Um, yeah. [57:49] What else? [57:49] What else? [57:50] Weather. [57:51] People. [57:52] The people, the weather, the food. [57:55] Um, like you said, I need to find a girlfriend. [57:59] That's what you wanted to hear. [58:01] That's what he wanted to hear. [58:04] Okay. [58:06] Go ahead, go ahead, Senator. [58:08] Mr. Aguilar, I have received a letter dated January 31, 2024. [58:16] And, uh, there are complaints. [58:19] Uh, they wanted you to be investigated. [58:24] Yes, sir. [58:24] We believe that urgent action is required to investigate and address the mismanagement and irregularities within the association. [58:33] Are you aware of this? [58:34] Yes, sir. [58:35] The following incidents have been highlighted for your consideration. [58:39] Misuse of IOC allowance. [58:42] The misappropriation of Olympic solidarity allowance funds leading to the affected athletes' retirement from the sport. [58:50] Are you aware of this, Mr. Aguilar? [58:51] Yes, sir. [58:52] Have you answered this? [58:54] Yeah, yes, sir. [58:55] Actually, um, that stemmed from, uh, well, like in any, in any sports association, uh, once you've been there, you're only there as long as you can produce for the country. [59:05] The people we've taken out, uh, were there for 10 years and didn't produce any, uh, any golds for our country. [59:13] So we hadn't taken out. [59:14] And of course they came up with, all of a sudden they came up with those complaints. [59:17] All those complaints have been, uh, addressed. [59:20] And, uh, ever since I've been there, the Philippines has never gotten more medals. [59:24] We had our first world champion, Asian champion, national champion, sea games champions. [59:29] That's all under my terms, sir. [59:31] And, uh, you're going to ask, sir. [59:32] How long have you been president? [59:34] I've been there for about 10 years, sir. [59:37] Uh, one of the issues that involve a highly promising athlete has been adversely affected by the poor misuse of IOC solidarity allowance. [59:47] Mr. Aguilar commanded former coach, Mr. Tapia, to instruct Ms. Efrilin Kalitis in withdrawing the IOC funds, totaling, totaling 187,000 pesos from the athlete's account and deposited into Mr. Aguilar's union bank account in staggered amounts. [1:00:09] 50,000 on October 25, 2022, 50,000 on October 26, 2022, 50,000 on October 27, 2022, and 37,000 on November 2, 2022. [1:00:24] This diversion of funds demands a comprehensive inquiry to validate the accuracy of these claims and protect the athlete's future prospects. [1:00:32] This resulted in the athlete's retirement from the sport. [1:00:37] Yes, of course. [1:00:37] Sir, um, we got, uh, we, that was already investigated by the Philippine Olympic Committee. [1:00:43] We returned all of that money to the Philippine Olympic Committee. [1:00:46] So what happens, because with the Olympic Solidarity Fund is we give, we, we give funds to an athlete. [1:00:52] They're given about a stipend of about a hundred thousand a month. [1:00:55] But what happens is when we give the money to the athlete, the athlete has to follow our program where they spend it on, for example, trainers, uh, competitions and everything. [1:01:05] That particular athlete's father was still using it for something else. [1:01:10] And we cannot have that. [1:01:11] Why was, why were the funds deposited into your account? [1:01:15] So, because I could give it back to the POC, sir. [1:01:17] And it's all already on record with the POC that I've already, uh, returned it, sir. [1:01:21] I have all of the deposits left for that, sir. [1:01:23] You know, these, these guys, uh, uh, went to my office and offered me to be president of, uh, wrestling. [1:01:32] Yes, sir. [1:01:32] I said, I don't know if I know about wrestling. [1:01:35] I look like a wrestler, but I don't, I don't know how to wrestle. [1:01:38] Sir. [1:01:39] Anyway, uh, I hope you, you have, uh. [1:01:43] Sir, that's been taken care of, sir. [1:01:45] I've already answered all of that to the POC. [1:01:48] Uh, we've already returned all of the POC. [1:01:50] We have all the records. [1:01:51] And ano lang yan talaga, sir, nasa manang loob nila na kasi we had to take them out. [1:01:55] Kasi sir, 10 years na talaga sila nandun walang medal. [1:01:57] And as the president, I'm duty-bound because I use the Philippines, the, you know, I use the [1:02:03] tax, taxpayers' money for our programs. [1:02:05] I cannot have anybody being there for more, for 10 years tapos walang medal for the Philippines. [1:02:10] But, uh, under my tenure, sir, if you check the record, I've had the most world champions. [1:02:14] Can you, can you submit that to this committee? [1:02:17] Yes, sir. [1:02:17] I will. [1:02:17] Yes, sir. [1:02:18] All the medals in the last year? [1:02:20] Definitely, sir. [1:02:20] And just last year, sir, we had 22 world champions. [1:02:23] Okay. [1:02:24] So the proof of the pudding is in the eating, is what you're saying. [1:02:27] And the WAP is a private entity. [1:02:30] Yes, sir. [1:02:30] Therefore, it would have been an issue if, uh, the funds were deposited in your account [1:02:35] and it was a government entity. [1:02:37] Yes, sir. [1:02:38] But in this case, you're a private entity. [1:02:40] But having said that, you've also explained that the money has been accounted for with the [1:02:45] Filipino Olympic Committee. [1:02:46] Thank you, sir. [1:02:47] I got the certification from the Filipino Olympic Committee that, uh, I got all the money and [1:02:51] returned it. [1:02:52] Because, um, remember, I, we have to remember that that money comes from the IOC also. [1:02:57] When the IOC gives it to the POC, the POC gives it to me. [1:03:00] So, and of course, we give it to the athlete. [1:03:03] Now, if the athlete's not spending it properly, the IOC will find out that that makes us Filipinos [1:03:08] look bad. [1:03:09] So I have to say, stop. [1:03:10] That cannot be. [1:03:11] So I give the money back to the POC and it's all on record, sir. [1:03:14] Okay. [1:03:14] Thank you. [1:03:16] Anything else? [1:03:16] Can we request a copy of the result of the investigation? [1:03:20] Definitely, sir. [1:03:21] That is disturbing as far as I'm concerned. [1:03:24] Why were the funds deposited in your account? [1:03:27] Oh, that's, uh, that's quite disturbing for me. [1:03:30] Because these are public funds and, uh, why? [1:03:33] Why was it deposited in your accounts? [1:03:39] Sir, because I, I had to give, well, it was deposited to me so I could deposit it back [1:03:43] to POC. [1:03:44] So, again, sir, it's already on record. [1:03:46] I have the bank accounts, sir, that I gave it back to POC. [1:03:50] Please give it to me so I can give it to POC. [1:03:53] And then, as a matter of fact, I do my own fundraising aside from what we get from PSC. [1:04:02] It's a very known fact. [1:04:04] It's all over Facebook and in the newspapers. [1:04:07] We fly everybody all over the world from five years old to, to like our seniors. [1:04:12] As a matter of fact, sir, my daughter was here with you, sir. [1:04:16] She was the youngest Filipino world champion. [1:04:18] You even asked her to choke you. [1:04:19] She was, you were her favorite. [1:04:21] That's my daughter, sir. [1:04:23] So, yin, sir. [1:04:24] So, we have so many of those. [1:04:25] We had 22 of those last year, sir. [1:04:27] All right. [1:04:28] Yeah. [1:04:29] Okay. [1:04:29] With that, Mr. Chair, I really, uh, I move for the approval of the, uh, [1:04:34] on the committee level. [1:04:36] On the committee level. [1:04:37] There's a motion. [1:04:39] Uh, we second it, uh, no objection. [1:04:42] Uh, we therefore, uh, the committee therefore endorses, uh, the citizenship applications of [1:04:49] both Mr. Boatwright and Mr. Ramos, uh, and that the same be acted upon by plenary. [1:04:55] We will endorse it. [1:04:56] And you have to be, both of you has, has to be present during the approval of the second [1:05:01] and third reading. [1:05:02] Yes. [1:05:02] Uh, here in the plenary. [1:05:04] Okay. [1:05:06] Uh, well, uh, belatedly, we have, uh, Senator Bongo online. [1:05:11] Uh, uh, uh, before we adjourn, we can get, give the, uh, uh, floor to Senator Bongo online. [1:05:19] Uh, you have the floor, Senator, uh, Bongo. [1:05:25] Uh, maraming salamat po, uh, Mr. Chair and, uh, Senator Jingo Estrada, [1:05:30] Senator, uh, our chairperson, uh, Senator Kiko Pangilinan. [1:05:34] Maraming salamat po, no, na, natuloy po yung pagdinig na ito. [1:05:37] Uh, Mr. Chair, as one of the authors of, uh, the, uh, measures in our agenda, [1:05:42] allow me to express my full support for the bills granting Philippine citizenship [1:05:47] to, uh, Benny, both right, uh, the third and Matthew James Ramos. [1:05:53] Uh, being the chairperson of the committees on sports and on youth, [1:05:57] I firmly believe, uh, that the, uh, that, uh, athletes who have, uh, [1:06:02] demonstrated the genuine allegiance to the Philippines [1:06:05] and unwavering commitment to excellence [1:06:08] and a clear, uh, intention to represent our country on the global stage. [1:06:23] Excuse me lang po, medyo na-ano lang ako. [1:06:24] No, uh, sorry. [1:06:25] Uh, granting, uh, deserving individuals Philippine citizenship [1:06:30] will not only strengthen our national sports program [1:06:33] and enhance our international competitiveness, [1:06:36] but will also inspire future generations of Filipino athletes [1:06:40] to pursue excellence, discipline, and national pride. [1:06:43] With that, Mr. Chair, I support the measures [1:06:46] which, uh, seek, uh, to grant Philippine citizenship [1:06:50] to the following individuals. [1:07:00] Mr. Matthew James Ramos. [1:07:02] Yeah, Mr. Matthew James Ramos, [1:07:06] a Filipino-American wrestler [1:07:08] who traces his roots, uh, through his father, [1:07:12] Crisante Holanday Ramos, [1:07:14] a resident of Barangay Poblasyon Basista, Pangasinan. [1:07:19] Mr. Ramos has expressed his, uh, earnest intention [1:07:23] to become a naturalized, uh, Filipino citizen [1:07:26] in order to proudly represent the Philippines [1:07:29] in international wrestling, uh, competitions. [1:07:32] His desire to carry the Philippine flag on the global stage [1:07:36] reflects not only his personal affinity [1:07:39] for his Filipino roots, [1:07:40] but also his commitment to contribute [1:07:43] to the nation's sports development. [1:07:45] Uh, Mr. Chair, uh, wrestling, [1:07:48] while still emerging as mainstream sport locally [1:07:51] has shown, uh, increasing promise in recent years. [1:07:55] The inclusion of highly skilled athletes [1:07:57] such as Matthew James Ramos [1:07:59] can significantly elevate the Philippines' competitiveness [1:08:02] in regional and world-level tournaments. [1:08:05] And, of course, uh, Mr. Benny Boatwright III. [1:08:09] Uh, I'm a PBA fan since, uh, uh, since 1983 [1:08:14] sa Araneta pa and then sa, uh, then known as Ultra. [1:08:18] Uh, sinusubaybayan ko talaga itong, uh, PBA [1:08:22] until now, no? Pag may panahon po. [1:08:25] Mr. Benny Boatwright III, [1:08:27] a distinguished professional basketball player [1:08:30] who has made, uh, considerable contributions [1:08:33] to Philippine sports through his participation. [1:08:36] in the Philippine Basketball Association. [1:08:38] He has demonstrated an immediate and powerful impact, [1:08:41] uh, upon his joining in the San Miguel Beerman [1:08:45] in, uh, December 2023 for the PBA Commissioner's Cup. [1:08:50] His exceptional skill and leadership [1:08:53] were instrumental in leading the Beerman, [1:08:56] uh, to the championship, uh, crown. [1:08:58] Uh, and, of course, no, with, uh, Al-Francis Chua, [1:09:01] uh, being the, uh, head of, uh, [1:09:06] uh, basketball operations of the San Miguel, uh, group. [1:09:08] Uh, siya po, siguro naka-discover kay Mr. Boatwright. [1:09:12] Uh, Mr. Boatwright's exceptional skills and professionalism [1:09:16] will make him an ideal fit for the team's growth and development. [1:09:20] Uh, three-pointer po ito. [1:09:23] Magaling sa outside ito si Benny Boatwright. [1:09:25] His presence would, uh, unquestionably boost our nation's competitiveness [1:09:30] in upcoming international competitions [1:09:32] while bringing, uh, immense pride and, uh, honor to the country. [1:09:37] Napakahalaga po nito dahil, uh, [1:09:39] siyempre, nagkakaedad na rin po si, uh, uh, Justin Brownlee. [1:09:44] But, uh, tayo po yung defending champion sa Asian Games [1:09:50] na nanalo tayo, uh, 2023. [1:09:54] Uh, 62 years po natin, uh, [1:09:59] uh, napananlunan muli yung goals sa Asian Games [1:10:02] and we are now the defending, uh, champion. [1:10:05] So, walaking tulong po ito si Benny Boatwright. [1:10:08] Uh, two, Mr. Boatwright, [1:10:10] as you step, uh, into this role, [1:10:12] we expect you to remain healthy and, uh, fit. [1:10:15] Napakahalaga po na you must be, uh, fit. [1:10:19] Always, uh, being part of the national team [1:10:21] is not merely an opportunity. [1:10:23] It is a calling that demands commitment, [1:10:26] sacrifice, and excellence. [1:10:27] Always remember that you have a duty to support [1:10:31] and uplift the national team [1:10:32] and that, uh, discipline must, uh, guide you all, uh, times, [1:10:36] both on and off, uh, the field. [1:10:40] You must ensure you are, uh, consistently [1:10:42] in peak playing form, ready to compete [1:10:45] at the highest, uh, level. [1:10:47] Uh, anyway, to Mr. Ramos and Mr. Boatwright, [1:10:51] you are entrusted not only with representing your sport, [1:10:54] but with, uh, carrying the pride [1:10:56] and aspirations of the nation. [1:10:58] This is a privilege which comes [1:10:59] with great purpose and responsibility. [1:11:02] More importantly, [1:11:03] your citizenship is not defined solely [1:11:06] by your membership in the national team. [1:11:08] It is a profound responsibility [1:11:10] as a Filipino, uh, one that calls [1:11:14] for integrity, dedication, [1:11:16] and unwavering service to the country. [1:11:17] And you must be proud to be, uh, Filipino [1:11:20] once, uh, you are approved na po. [1:11:22] Uh, looking forward, uh, in working, uh, with you. [1:11:27] Lastly, Mr. Chairman, [1:11:28] I am confident that with our continued support [1:11:31] for our athletes, [1:11:32] especially those who aspire to represent us [1:11:34] in various sports competitions, [1:11:36] our country will become a stronger contender [1:11:39] in future international, uh, events. [1:11:42] Uh, maraming salamat po, [1:11:44] Mr. Chair, [1:11:44] at sa committee sa pag, uh, dinig na ito. [1:11:47] Uh, uh, sana po'y, uh, maipasa po [1:11:50] itong, uh, uh, kanilang, uh, application [1:11:54] for naturalization. [1:11:56] Maraming salamat po, [1:11:57] and, uh, congratulations po [1:11:59] to Mr. Boatwright, [1:12:00] uh, Mr. Boatwright and Mr. Ramos. [1:12:03] Salamat. [1:12:06] Thank you, Senator, uh, Bongo, [1:12:08] a, uh, principal author [1:12:09] and author of the measures. [1:12:12] Um, with that, uh, [1:12:13] maybe one, one quick question, [1:12:16] uh, one, uh, request for submissions [1:12:17] from the, uh, Wrestling Association. [1:12:20] If you can give us the, [1:12:22] the awards and the medals [1:12:24] received by Mr. Ramos, [1:12:27] uh, that would be, uh, [1:12:29] part of our sponsorship speech. [1:12:32] Um, and, uh, for the record, Matt, [1:12:35] uh, who among your family members [1:12:36] are here today joining you [1:12:38] to show their support? [1:12:41] Uh, my tatay, [1:12:42] my future father and mother-in-law [1:12:44] and my fiancé. [1:12:47] Okay. [1:12:47] So, that by itself is very Filipino. [1:12:51] You bring the entire family [1:12:52] wherever you go. [1:12:53] Yes. [1:12:54] Thank you. [1:12:56] Uh, so, so, um, yep, [1:12:59] the citizenship application, [1:13:01] uh, should be supported, uh, [1:13:03] uh, both, uh, for Mr. [1:13:05] Boltreit and, uh, for Matt. [1:13:07] Um, there being no other matters, [1:13:09] uh, we will now consider this, uh, [1:13:12] uh, committee hearing of the [1:13:13] Committee on Justice and Human Rights [1:13:15] adjourned. [1:13:16] Thank you very much. [1:13:18] Thank you very much. [1:13:18] Thank you very much. [1:13:19] Thank you very much. [1:13:19] Thank you very much. [1:13:19] Thank you very much. [1:13:19] Thank you very much. [1:13:19] Thank you very much. [1:13:19] Thank you very much. [1:13:19] Thank you very much. [1:13:19] Thank you very much. [1:13:20] Thank you very much. [1:13:20] Thank you very much. [1:13:20] Thank you very much. [1:13:20] Thank you very much. [1:13:20] Thank you very much. [1:13:21] Thank you very much. [1:13:21] Thank you very much. [1:13:22] Thank you very much. [1:13:22] Thank you very much. [1:13:23] Thank you very much. [1:13:23] Thank you very much. [1:13:24] Thank you very much. [1:13:24] Thank you very much. [1:13:25] Thank you very much. [1:13:25] Thank you very much. [1:13:26] Thank you very much. [1:13:27] Thank you very much. [1:13:28] Thank you very much. [1:13:29] Thank you very much. [1:13:30] Thank you very much.