January 31, 2025 | 8:00am
Philippines Senate Approves Controversial Chinese National’s Citizenship
MANILA, Philippines — The Senate has approved the citizenship of Liduan Wang, a Chinese national with alleged ties to Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGOs), following a year of intense controversy and scrutiny.
Background on Liduan Wang
Wang, originally from Fujian, China, has lived in the Philippines since 1991. Despite his long residency, several red flags have been raised about his eligibility for citizenship.
The Journey to Naturalization
In 2023, a bill supporting Wang’s naturalization was introduced by Rep. Joey Salceda and Rep. Juliet Ferrer. This bill was later approved by the Senate in 2024, where it was sponsored by Sen. Francis Tolentino.
The Controversy Surrounding POGOs
The approval of Wang’s naturalization has ignited debate due to the controversy surrounding POGOs. These operations have attracted foreign workers, many from China, and have been linked to human trafficking and illegal activities.
Senator Risa Hontiveros’s Protests
Leading the opposition against Wang’s naturalization is Sen. Risa Hontiveros. She raised concerns about Wang’s past actions and alleged dishonesty in his application process.
Hontiveros pointed out that Wang had failed to disclose his role with the 9 Dynasty junket group, which was associated with illegal POGO operations. Additionally, he had listed himself as Filipino in the Articles of Incorporation of the Avia International Club, which is alleged to cater only to Chinese nationals.
“You cannot be a Filipino citizen while applying to be one. Both facts cannot be true at the same time. This clear lie already suggests bad faith on the part of the applicant,” Hontiveros emphasized.
Multiple Tax Identification Numbers
Hontiveros also highlighted that Wang held multiple Tax Identification Numbers, which cast further doubt on his legitimacy in the Philippines.
Wang’s Affiliation and Allegiances
The senator questioned Wang’s ties to the Philippine Jinjiang Yuxi Association, rumored to be linked to the Chinese Communist Party’s efforts in the country.
Hontiveros drew attention to a photograph of Wang with Duanren Wu, a figure associated with a POGO operation in Porac, Pampanga, and the godfather of Cassandra Li Ong, who faces human trafficking charges.
“I question where Mr. Wang’s loyalties would be, if he is granted Filipino citizenship by the Philippine Senate,” Hontiveros stated.
Defending the Citizenship Application
In response to the allegations, Sen. Francis Tolentino defended the application process and Wang’s eligibility for naturalization.
Tolentino argued that the documents listing Wang as Filipino were prepared by an accountant and that Wang’s junket operations were legal and licensed by PAGCOR. He also pointed out that Avia International Club was not exclusive to Chinese nationals.
“The mere fact that you are open enough to subject yourself to public scrutiny and embarrassment, humiliation, is a proof that there is nothing being hidden,” Tolentino explained.
Government Verification
Wang’s application had been vetted by several government agencies, including the National Bureau of Investigation and the National Security Council.
The Final Vote
The Senate vote on Wang’s citizenship resulted in 19 yes votes and one no vote. Hontiveros was the lone dissenting senator.
Hontiveros has since urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to veto the measure granting Wang citizenship.
The Broader Implications
The approval of Wang’s citizenship raises broader questions about national security and the government’s handling of issues related to human trafficking and illegal POGOs.
As the controversy unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor any further developments and actions taken by the government regarding Wang’s citizenship and the overall regulation of POGOs in the Philippines.
Conclusion
The Senate’s decision to approve Liduan Wang’s citizenship marks a contentious milestone in the ongoing debate over POGOs and national security in the Philippines.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
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