Philippine President Gloria Arroyo yesterday signed into law a bill allowing Filipinos abroad to have dual citizenship in a move intended to further open up the economy.

Arroyo said that the law was “a response to globalisation as much as it is a response to the strong homing instincts of every Filipino.?nbsp;

“The majority of the Filipinos who migrated abroad did so for better opportunities but they continue their allegiance to the Philippines,?Arroyo said.

“This continued allegiance is demonstrated by their maintaining contacts and interest in their homeland and by their intention to retire, own properties and invest their hard-earned money in the country,?she added.

Certain areas of the economy are still limited only to Filipino citizens such as ownership of land, practice of some professions and majority control of some industries.

Legislators have said that the dual citizenship law would encourage the millions of Filipinos who migrated abroad to return and invest in the country.

However critics have said it devalues the status of citizens and weakens loyalty to the Philippines.

Under the new law, those born in the Philippines who have obtained citizenship elsewhere will be allowed to regain their Philippine citizenship by taking an oath of allegiance to this country.

interestiing i fall in the other boat. I was born in the US to philippine citizens. Which makes me a dual citizen by birth. Its kinda messed up.