Marcos vetoes citizenship grant for Chinese entrepreneur over POGO links

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. vetoed a bill granting Chinese entrepreneur Li Duan Wang Filipino citizenship, citing potential dangers.

Marcos emphasized in his veto message that he could not ignore the alarming and revealing warnings from Philippine government agencies about Wang's character and influence.

The President stated during a briefing on Friday, April 11, that Filipino citizenship is a privilege that should not be handed out to just anyone and must align with national aspirations.

Wang has alleged connections to illegal activities in the POGO industry, including links with the 9 Dynasty junket group, despite complying with all legal requirements.

Opposition leader Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros welcomed the presidential veto, saying it shows the government's commitment to protecting the sanctity of Filipino citizenship.