Senate approves citizenship for Chinese businessman Li Duan Wang

The Philippine Senate approved House Bill No. 8839 granting citizenship to Chinese businessman Li Duan Wang on Monday night, January 27, with a vote of 19-1.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian defended the decision Wednesday, stating that Wang's application complied with all legal requirements and he has no derogatory records.

Gatchalian said his team conducted an independent review and additional background checks were made by the Senate Committee on Justice to ensure there were no negative reports about Wang.

The senator acknowledged concerns raised by Senator Risa Hontiveros but emphasized that naturalization decisions must be based on concrete evidence rather than speculation.

Senators Gatchalian and Joseph Victor Ejercito both noted Wang's long-term residency in the Philippines, his children studying in local schools, and his active membership in various business associations.