Philippine Citizenship to Anthony Bungal Markanich Jr.

Senate Offier of the Secretarp TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE P12:56 JAN 26 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES First Regular Session RECEIVED BY: SENATE S. No. 1682 Introduced by Senator PIA S. CAYETANO AN ACT GRANTING PHILIPPINE CITIZENSHIP TO ANTHONY BUNGAL MARKANICH JR. EXPLANATORY NOTE This proposed bill seeks to grant Philippine citizenship to Anthony Bungal Markanich Jr., a talented defender with Filipino heritage whose commitment and rising career make him a promising asset to the Philippine national men's football team. Born in Illinois, U.S.A., Markanich's roots are deeply anchored in the Philippines through his mother, who was born and raised in Cavite. He currently plays as a defender for Minnesota United FC in Major League Soccer (MLS). He has a twin brother, Nicholas Markanich, who is also a professional football player. Markanich distinguished himself collegiately at Northern Illinois University, making sixty-seven appearances, scoring seventeen goals, and delivering twenty-four assists, earning him four All-Mid-American Conference (MAC) selections, including three times on the First Team. His professional journey began when he was drafted 26th overall in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft by the Colorado Rapids, where he made his MLS debut in May 2022. He was subsequently traded to St. Louis City SC in August 2023, and then moved to Minnesota United FC in mid-2024. Since joining Minnesota, he has accumulated thirty-six appearances, including starts in continental matches like the Concacaf Champions Cup, showing his growing value in the league.

Markanich was recruited by the national team in March 2024. This invitation underscores his potential fit within the national program and the value he could bring to the Philippine team, combining his high-level professional experience with the opportunity to deepen his connection to his Filipino heritage. Markanich has expressed sincere pride in the opportunity to represent the Philippines, viewing it as a meaningful way to honor his family's heritage and contribute to the growth of national football. His professionalism, humility, and proven ability at a high level reflect the character expected of those who carry the national flag, making him a valuable addition to the team as the Philippines seeks to pursue greater success on the international stage. In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought. Pia S. Caystano N PIA S. CAYETANO

Senate Office of the Sriretary TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 26 JAN 26 P12:56 First Regular Session RECEIVED BY: SENATE 1682 S. No. - Introduced by Senator PIA S. CAYETANO AN ACT GRANTING PHILIPPINE CITIZENSHIP TO ANTHONY BUNGAL MARKANICH JR. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled:

Section 1. Grant of Philippine Citizenship to Anthony Bungal Markanich Jr. -

2 Anthony Bungal Markanich Jr. is hereby granted Philippine citizenship with all the rights, privileges, and prerogatives, as well as the duties and obligations appurtenant thereto under the Constitution and the laws of the Republic of the Philippines.

Sec. 2. Oath of Allegiance. - Anthony Bungal Markanich Jr. shall take the Oath of

6 Allegiance before an officer duly authorized to administer the same. The Oath of 7 Allegiance shall be registered with the Bureau of Immigration.

Sec. 3. Certificate of Naturalization and Enjoyment of Philippine Citizenship. - Upon

registration of the Oath of Allegiance, the Bureau of Immigration shall issue a Certificate of Naturalization to Anthony Bungal Markanich Jr. who shall thereupon enter into the full enjoyment of Philippine Citizenship.

Sec. 4. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following its

13 complete publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation. Approved,