By Darryl John Esguerra
MANILA – Malick Diouf and Elizabeth Jeanette Means have officially become Filipino citizens after securing their Philippine passports, boosting the country’s basketball 3×3 program.
“Filipinos, finally!” the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) said in a social media post Wednesday night, confirming that the two basketball standouts had completed the process of acquiring Philippine citizenship.
The development marks a major boost for the country’s 3×3 basketball program, with Diouf being eyed for the Gilas Pilipinas men’s 3×3 pool and Means considered a prospect for the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s 3×3 team.
“The SBP thanks the Office of the President, the Senate of the Philippines, and the House of Representatives for making this possible,” the federation said.
Diouf, a 6-foot-11 center born in Dakar, Senegal, rose to prominence during his collegiate career with the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, helping the school capture the UAAP Season 84 men’s basketball championship before winning the Most Valuable Player award in Season 85.
Means, meanwhile, is a 6-foot player from Folsom, California, whose family traces its roots to the Philippines through her grandfather, who was born in Naga City, Camarines Sur.
Republic Acts No. 12318 and 12319, which granted Philippine citizenship to Diouf and Means, respectively, lapsed into law on May 18, 2026.
“This is an important step in the right direction for Gilas Pilipinas 3×3,” the SBP said.
The acquisition of Philippine passports completes a key requirement for both players as the national federation continues to strengthen its talent pool for future international 3×3 competitions. (PNA)
