MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Canadian vlogger Kyle Douglas Jennerman, popularly known as “Kulas,” only awaits the signature of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to become a naturalized Filipino. 

The Senate passed House Bill No. 7185, which grants Kulas Filipino citizenship, with 24 senators voting in favor during the Monday session.

Kulas, who arrived in the Philippines in 2013 and gained recognition through his YouTube channel “BecomingFilipino,” has been passionately showcasing the country’s culture and beauty to his audience.

The bill, sponsored by Justice and Human Rights Committee Chairman Francis Tolentino, garnered co-sponsorship from Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, and Senators Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa and Sonny Angara.

Zubiri expressed admiration for Jennerman’s dedication, stating, “He is a better promoter of the Philippines than many of the people I know who do that for a living.” Having spent nearly a decade in the Philippines, Kulas has fully embraced the Filipino way of life, according to Zubiri. 

In addition, Zubiri also expressed trust that Kulas, now teary-eyed, would “live up to this great gift given to you by the Filipino people.”

“You have already done so much to promote our country and our culture to Filipinos and foreign nationals alike. We look forward to your future contributions as you champion the country that you now call your home,” he said.

Dela Rosa also praised Jennerman’s commitment, asserting that he has redefined the meaning of nationalism in the modern era through his social media presence and powerful messages.

Tolentino applauded Kulas not only for his promotion of the Philippines worldwide but also for his assistance to Filipinos in times of great need, notably after the devastating impacts of Supertyphoon Yolanda, Typhoon Odette, and Typhoon Paeng. 

Tolentino emphasized that being a Filipino does not solely depend on birthright or citizenship but can also be demonstrated through embodying Filipino culture and values.

With the Senate’s endorsement, the bill now awaits President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s signature to complete Kulas’s journey towards Filipino naturalization. 

This achievement marks a significant milestone and recognition of Jennerman’s contributions to the Philippines, as he continues to showcase the country’s rich heritage and extend support to fellow Filipinos in times of adversity. – WhatALife!/Jayve

Source: (1), (2)

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