Legal Advice
Mandatory waiting period before filing a petition for Philippine citizenship through naturalization

Dear PAO,

I am a refugee from a Middle East country constantly ravaged by war. I have been living in the Philippines for 12 years, and it is my intention to acquire Philippine citizenship. I have been inquiring about the naturalization process, and I was told that I need to submit a declaration under oath of my intention to acquire Philippine citizenship at least one year before the filing of the appropriate petition in court. Is this true? If yes, what is the effect of non-compliance?
Rabosini