BIENVE Marañon is looking forward to the day that he becomes a naturalized Filipino.
The process of naturalization of the Spanish striker has now passed the second reading with House Bill No. 8631 now pending in the rules committee.
The 34-year-old Marañon is happy for the support of the Filipinos in the process that will move him closer to representing the Philippines in international tournaments.
“First of all I would like to say thanks to the people involved in this process,” said Marañon in an online interview with SPIN. “I feel so happy especially for the love that I’m receiving from the Filipinos.”
Marañon has been playing in the Philippines since 2015 as part of Ceres-Negros FC. He is one of the most prolific scorers in Southeast Asia, being the leading goal scorer in the AFC Cup with 35.
Marañon is closer to getting an opportunity to play for the Philippine Azkals in the future after Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri filed a bill to naturalize the El Puerto, Spain native.
“It’s a big step for me and I will try that every single Filipino feel proud with my contribution to the country,” said the United City FC striker.
Meanwhile, Marañon is also thrilled with the opportunity against top-level clubs in the AFC Champions League.
United City FC made history after becoming the first Philippine club to gain a berth in the AFC Champions League. The team, however, is facing a daunting task to advance as they are bracketed in Group I with Japan champion Kawasaki Frontale and Guangzhou FC.
“It’s a great opportunity for me and the club and at the same time for the Philippines football to be showed in the biggest football stage,” Marañon said. “Between all – federation, team, players, staff – can do Philippine football one of the best leagues of Southeast Asia.”
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