SENATOR Risa Hontiveros lauded the decision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to veto the bill that sought to grant Filipino citizenship to Chinese national Li Duan Wang, citing concerns over national interest and public security.

In her official statement, Hontiveros said the veto was a “necessary and welcome move,” and emphasized its importance in upholding the integrity of Philippine citizenship.

She added: “This shows our government’s commitment to protecting the sanctity of our Filipino citizenship.”

Hontiveros had previously raised strong opposition to Wang’s naturalization, citing details she described as “deeply alarming.” According to her, Wang was found to have multiple taxpayer identification numbers and was reportedly linked to unauthorized operations of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

She also mentioned Wang’s alleged affiliation with a group reportedly connected to the Chinese Communist Party.

“These are not small issues or minor technicalities,” Hontiveros said. “Rewarding Wang with Filipino citizenship, despite these red flags, would have sent the wrong message and set a dangerous precedent.”

She described the President’s veto as a stand for the national interest and further urged authorities to maintain momentum in examining issues within the POGO industry.

“We must continue to investigate and bring to justice other abusive personalities in the POGO industry who may be exploiting our laws and putting our security at risk,” she said.

The legislative bill in question, had it been signed into law, would have granted citizenship by congressional fiat—a process that bypasses the regular judicial naturalization route.

The rationale behind Wang’s eligibility under this exceptional process was not publicly detailed during deliberations.

The POGO sector has drawn heightened attention in recent years due to reported incidents involving fraud, human trafficking, and tax-related violations.

No response has been made public by Wang or his representatives regarding the veto. Legislators who supported the bill have not issued statements as of this writing.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Camille P. Balagtas