Manila: Malick Diouf and Elizabeth Jeanette Means have officially become Filipino citizens after securing their Philippine passports, boosting the country's basketball 3x3 program. 'Filipinos, finally!' the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) said in a social media post, confirming that the two basketball standouts had completed the process of acquiring Philippine citizenship.

According to Philippines News Agency, the development marks a significant advancement for the country's 3x3 basketball program, with Diouf being eyed for the Gilas Pilipinas men's 3x3 pool and Means considered a prospect for the Gilas Pilipinas Women's 3x3 team. The SBP expressed gratitude towards the Office of the President, the Senate of the Philippines, and the House of Representatives for their roles in making this possible.

Diouf, a 6-foot-11 center born in Dakar, Senegal, gained recognition during his collegiate career with the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, where he contributed to the school's victory in the UAAP Season 84 men's basketball championship and subsequently won the Most Valuable Player award in Season 85. Means, a 6-foot player from Folsom, California, has familial ties to the Philippines through her grandfather, who was born in Naga City, Camarines Sur.

Republic Acts No. 12318 and 12319, which granted Philippine citizenship to Diouf and Means, respectively, lapsed into law on May 18, 2026. The acquisition of Philippine passports fulfills a critical requirement for both players as the national federation seeks to enhance its talent pool for upcoming international 3x3 competitions.

"This is an important step in the right direction for Gilas Pilipinas 3x3," the SBP remarked, emphasizing the significance of this development for the future of the program.