03. Citizenship

In 1980 spouses Felisa and George, both Filipino citi­zens, migrated to the United States. Six years later they became American citizens. In 1909 they jointly filed a petition before the Regional Trial Court of Malabon seeking to adopt Gilda, the 10-year old daughter of Helen, Felisa's younger sister. The government opposed the petition on the ground that Felisa and George were disqualified since they were already American citizens.

1. How will you resolve the petition? Explain.

2. Will your answer be the same if George were & natural-born American citizen? Explain.

3. Will your answer be the same if Felisa were the illegitimate parent of Gilda? Explain.

4. Going back to the basic facts, suppose Felisa acquired her American citizenship during the pendency of the petition for adoption, will your answer be the same as in Question No. 1?