GR # L-21289, October 4, 1971 [Naturalization - Qualification and Disqualification; CA 473]
FACTS:
Lau Yuen Yeung, an alien visiting the Philippines, whose authorized stay in the Philippines was to expire, claims herself to be lawfully naturalized upon her marriage to a Filipino citizen. Solicitor General opposes the ground that the marriage of the alien to a Filipino citizen does not automatically confer on the latter Philippine citizenship. Plaintiff-appellant does not possess all the qualifications required for applicant for naturalization (CA 473), even she has proven that she possesses none of the disqualifications in said law.
ISSUE:
Whether or not Lau Yuen Yeung became ipso facto a Filipino citizen upon her marriage to a Filipino citizen.
RULING:
Yes. An alien woman, upon her marriage to a Filipino citizen, becomes lawfully naturalized ipso facto, provided that she does not possess all of the disqualifications enumerated in CA 473. (Sections 15 and 4)
