Congressional Hearing on Citizenship and Eligibility

Sep 20, 2024

Notes from Congressional Hearing with Congressman Benny Amante

Introduction

  • Congressman Benny Amante recognized to speak.
  • Lighthearted interaction with witnesses Cassie and Alice about eating hopia.

Background of Alice

  • Alice's family background:
    • Father: Chinese
    • Mother: Filipino
  • Alice grew up without her mother; raised by her father.
  • Claims uncertainty about her family's wealth:
    • Identifies as middle class.

Education

  • Education history:
    • Attended homeschool, teacher named Rubilin.
    • Not a graduate of Grace Christian High School.
    • Did not complete high school or college.

Personal Experiences

  • Described upbringing:
    • Lived on a farm in Tarlac.
    • Limited exposure to the outside world due to biosecurity measures (related to pig farming).
  • Social life:
    • Had friends in the community, suppliers of farm products.

Political Career

  • Became mayor of Bamban:
    • Helped by former mayor John Feliciano.
  • Questioned about qualifications to hold public office without formal education.

Citizenship Issues

  • Alice's citizenship status questioned:
    • Invoked right against self-incrimination when asked about citizenship.
    • Related documents suggested she may have Chinese nationality.
  • Discussion of her running for public office:
    • Emphasis on the requirement to be a Filipino citizen to run for office.
    • Concerns raised about national security implications.

Conclusion

  • Congressman Amante expressed concerns about the implications of Alice's eligibility for public office based on her citizenship status.
  • Highlighted the importance of addressing citizenship issues in relation to public service.