Renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Raquel Fortun took to social media to express her disapproval of the Senate’s decision to grant Filipino citizenship to Chinese national Liduan Wang. On her X (formerly Twitter) account, Dr. Fortun posted a blunt reaction: “Shet,” echoing the sentiments of those critical of the bill sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino.
The measure, approved on its third and final reading on January 27, has sparked widespread debate due to allegations surrounding Wang’s ties to Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGOs). Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros cast the lone “no” vote, citing concerns over Wang’s associations with controversial figures and organizations.
Hontiveros raised red flags during the deliberations, revealing Wang’s alleged connections to a junket operation and his business partnership with Duanren Wu, the alleged leader of a POGO raided in Porac, Pampanga. She further highlighted Wang’s ties to the Philippine Jinjiang Yuxi Association, which is reportedly linked to the United Front Work Department of the Communist Party of China.
“Granting citizenship involves rigorous scrutiny. We must investigate an applicant’s background thoroughly,” Hontiveros stated during her explanation of the vote. She underscored Wang’s use of a Filipino alias, Mark Co Ong, in official documents as another point of concern.
The bill’s proponents, including Senators Bato Dela Rosa, Robinhood Padilla, JV Ejercito, Bong Go, and Chiz Escudero, defended their support for the measure. However, critics argue that granting citizenship to Wang, despite unresolved issues surrounding his background, sets a dangerous precedent.
Dr. Fortun’s terse but powerful remark on social media reflects growing frustration among Filipinos regarding the government’s handling of cases involving foreign nationals with questionable backgrounds. Netizens echoed her sentiments, with many calling for stricter scrutiny of applicants for Philippine citizenship, especially those with alleged ties to illegal or controversial activities.
“Hindi pa ba tayo natuto?” Hontiveros questioned during her speech, referencing past controversies involving foreign nationals granted Filipino citizenship under dubious circumstances. She urged the government to investigate Wang thoroughly instead of enacting a law to naturalize him.
As the controversy unfolds, Dr. Fortun’s blunt reaction has added to the discourse, serving as a rallying point for those advocating for greater transparency and accountability in the naturalization process.
— Raquel Fortun (@Doc4Dead) January 28, 2025