Aleksandr Korovin Becomes Filipino Citizen for Winter Games

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has signed Republic Act No. 12115, granting Philippine citizenship to figure skater Aleksandr Korovin, according to an announcement in the Official Gazette on Dec. 21.

Korovin, 30, was born in Russia but has represented the Philippines in international figure skating competitions since 2021 alongside his partner, Isabella Gamez.

The Senate approved Korovin’s naturalization under Senate Bill 2461 on its third and final reading earlier this month, paving the way for his eligibility to compete as a Filipino athlete.

Philippine Skating Union (PHSU) president Nikki Cheng expressed confidence in the duo’s potential to bring glory to the country. “We firmly believe that this talented duo has the potential to bring home the Philippines’ first-ever medal in the Asian Winter Games,” she said.

Korovin and Gamez are slated to compete in the upcoming Asian Winter Games in February 2025. Their naturalization ensures their eligibility to represent the Philippines on the international stage.

The pair recently participated in the 2024 ISU Cup of China, where they finished seventh out of eight pairs, showcasing their skills against top competitors from around the world.