TYLER Tio of Ateneo has finally become a Filipino citizen, making him eligible to play as a local in the coming UAAP season..
No less than Solicitor General Jose Calida tweeted a photo of him with the 5-11 Tio confirming that the Ateneo point guard is now officially a Filipino.
"Congratulations @Tyler_Tio on becoming a Filipino citizen. The long wait is over for @ateneodemanilau. #OneBigFight," tweeted Calida on Tuesday.
Tio, a Canadian citizen, missed playing for the Blue Eagles last season as he was unable to obtain a Philippine passport prior to Season 79 of the UAAP.
[See Tyler Tio disappointed not to make Ateneo lineup as release of PH passport delayed]
Technically, the former Xavier standout, born to Filipino parents, can play as a foreigner being a Canadian citizen last season but the league only allows one foreigner per team.
"Finally a Filipino citizen! Thank you @SolGenCalida. Thank you, Lord," tweeted Tio in response to Calida.
While waiting to become a Filipino citizen, Tio spent last year playing for Ateneo's Team B.
This summer, Tio was once again fielded as a member of the Blue Eagles in the Filoil preseason tournament where UAAP players suited up.
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