BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Emotions were running high on this special Friday for newly recognized U.S. citizens.
“We’re very happy right now, since this is also our wedding anniversary,” said Joselito Doctolero, alongside his wife Maridess Devera Doctolero, “It’s our 21st anniversary.”
The Doctoleros are from the Philippines and today they are not only celebrating their love but being able to call themselves U.S. nationals.
“We’ve been here for six years so, it’s been quite happy for us, quite good, that we’re still together until now,” said Joselito Doctolero.
Alongside 30 others, they enjoyed their naturalization ceremony at the symbolic site of the Cesar E. Chavez National Monument.
“The place where fighting for people’s rights, respect, especially with Latinos started,” said Teresa Romero, President of United Farm Workers.
“He said ordinary people can do extraordinary things, and today we have represented over 9 nations who took the oath of office to become the latest United States citizens,” said Charles Sams, Director of National Park Service.