Kyle Jennermann.
THE House of Representatives has approved on second reading House Bill 1764 granting Filipino citizenship to Kyle Jennermann — with all the rights, privileges, and prerogatives appurtenant thereto — filed by Biñan City Rep. Marlyn Alonte.
“Naniniwala tayong ang panukalang batas na ito ay hindi lamang para sa kapakanan ni Kulas kundi ito ay magbibigay daan sa mas malalim at malawak na pagkilala sa angking talino at galing ng lahing Filipino,” Alonte said.
The congressman said Kyle Jennermann is a Canadian national who “found himself enamored with the Philippines. He firmly believes that the world would be a better place if people around the world make the Philippines a part of their lives in one way or another.”
“Stuck with this belief “Kulas,” which is the nickname that Jennermann was given several years ago by one of the manongs whom he met in one of his travels, lived with a purpose: introduce the Philippines to the rest of the world through the internet with his vlogs,” Alonte, member of both the Committee on Foreign Affairs and Committee on Tourism, added.
Alonte noted that Jennermann set up the YouTube channel called “Becoming Filipino” and “through time, effort, and his love for the country, he has become an internet sensation. Through his vlogs, he has created and published thousands of video content showcasing his real-life interactions and connections with the Filipino people and their culture throughout his nine and a half years of immersive travel across the provinces.”
“Kyle Jennermann’s contributions to the promotion of Filipino culture and identity to the rest of the world make him deserving to be a naturalized Filipino,” she said.
Jennerman was elated by the approval of the naturalization bill. “It was an incredibly emotional hearing, and I am so grateful for everything shared and discussed. I am so grateful for the time given to me to share about my life in the Philippines and deep appreciation for this country,” Jennermann said in his Facebook post.
“I am also beyond inspired to share that many of the congressmen and congresswomen in the hearing have now become authors of the bill, supporting its hopeful approval in plenary. It is hard to put into words how thankful I am,” Jennermann added.
