Filipino citizenship bids of Malick Diouf, Elizabeth Means pass Senate on final reading

Two athletes with promising international potential are now a step closer to wearing the Philippine colors after the Senate of the Philippines approved on third and final reading the bills granting Filipino citizenship to Malick Diouf and Elizabeth Means.

On Monday, lawmakers passed House Bill Nos. 6640 and 6641, legislative measures seeking to grant naturalization to the two basketball players in a move aimed at strengthening the country’s talent pool. 

Once enacted, the two are expected to be considered for the national 3×3 basketball program under Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.

The measures were sponsored by Francis Pangilinan, who emphasized the broader impact of the initiative on Philippine basketball. Pangilinan noted that bringing Diouf and Means into the national fold could enhance the competitiveness of the program while serving as inspiration to aspiring Filipino athletes. 

The bills will now be transmitted to the Office of the President of the Philippines for final approval and signing into law.

Diouf first made his mark in Philippine collegiate basketball during his stint with the UP Fighting Maroons in the UAAP, where he played as a foreign student-athlete. His presence in the paint proved instrumental in helping the Maroons capture the Season 84 championship, showcasing a blend of size, defense, and rebounding that quickly made him a fan favorite.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

ONE STEP CLOSER

The Senate has approved on third and final reading the naturalization bills for basketball players Maodo Diouf and Elizabeth Jeanette Means, bringing them closer to gaining Philippine citizenship and representing Gilas Pilipinas.#GilasPilipinas pic.twitter.com/t3yjlEMKq9

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) March 16, 2026

Means, meanwhile, built her basketball experience overseas, playing for Westminster University in NCAA Division II. Her athleticism and versatility have drawn attention from Philippine basketball officials who see her as a strong addition to the women’s 3×3 program.

In a statement, the SBP welcomed the Senate’s decision and described the development as “another step forward for PH basketball,” signaling optimism that the country’s player pool will continue to expand through naturalization.

Diouf’s potential inclusion in the national setup is particularly intriguing for the Philippines’ evolving 3×3 program. Known for his physical presence and defensive instincts during his collegiate career, the Senegal-born center developed a reputation in the UAAP as a reliable rim protector and rebounder—qualities that could translate well in the fast-paced, physical nature of international 3×3 competition.

For Means, the path to Philippine basketball could open new opportunities for the women’s program on the global stage. Her background in American collegiate basketball brings a different style and experience that could complement the country’s existing talent pool, especially as the Philippines continues to expand its presence in international 3×3 tournaments.

Aside from Diouf and Means, other athletes are also undergoing the naturalization process, including former PBA import Bennie Boatwright and wrestler Matthew James Ramos.

Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

  Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!