Canadian vlogger Kyle Douglas Jennerman, known to his followers as “Kulas,” awaits the final signature from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to become a naturalized Filipino.
The Senate made a resounding decision during its Monday session, with 24 senators favoring House Bill No. 7185, also known as the legislation that grants Jennerman Filipino citizenship.
Jennerman embarked on his journey in the Philippines back in 2013 and has since captivated audiences with his renowned YouTube channel, “BecomingFilipino.” He showcases the country’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes through his online content.
“I couldn’t be more excited. Being 35 years old right now… in the prime of my life. I am filled with so much inspiration and motivation. So much love! Being immersed and connected with the Filipino community both here in the country and around the world. It just fills me with so much optimism… the positive things we can do together,” Jennermann wrote online.
Justice and Human Rights Committee Chairman Francis Tolentino sponsored HB 7185 in the Senate, alongside co-sponsors Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, and Senators Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa and Sonny Angara.
Zubiri expressed his admiration for Jennerman’s unwavering dedication, stating, “He exceeds the promotional efforts of many professionals in the field. Despite being born and raised on Vancouver Island, Canada, in his nearly decade-long stay in the Philippines, Kulas has undeniably embraced the essence of being Filipino.”
Jennermann’s Becoming Filipino Facebook page has 1.5 million followers, while his YouTube channel has over 1 million subscribers.
Although having lawmakers file a bill to grant citizenship is one way to do it, Philippine law allows foreigners living in the Philippines to go through the naturalization process — they must have lived in the country for at least 10 years, demonstrate proficiency in English or Spanish as well as a Philippine language, and must demonstrate good moral character, criteria that Jennermann meets.
