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. WATCH: Kern County Board of Supervisors District 2 debate "They're holding back tears and those are tears of emotion," said Romero. "I can only imagine some of their stories about coming to this country, why they came here, how they became citizens." Although it can seem like a tedious or long process, the Doctoleros hope this inspires anyone to start or continue with their citizenship journey. "Take it easy, don't be nervous, if your papers are all intact then you're good to go," said Joselito Doctolero.