Senator Jinggoy Estrada clarifies the context of his inquiry about Elizabeth Means' romantic relationships during her naturalization hearing in the Philippines, emphasizing it was to assess her intent to settle in the country.
Senator Jinggoy Estrada recently addressed criticism over his question about American basketball player Elizabeth Means’ romantic relationships during a Senate hearing concerning her application for Philippine naturalization. Estrada explained that the question about whether Means has a Filipino boyfriend was intended as part of a broader effort to understand her reasons for seeking Filipino citizenship. This took place during the Committee on Justice and Human Rights hearing on March 3, 2026, where Means testified regarding her naturalization process. Means aims to obtain Philippine citizenship to represent the country in basketball competitions, including the 2028 Olympics, and is a prospect for the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s 3×3 team. Estrada clarified that his questions were meant in the context of determining if Means intends to genuinely make the Philippines her home, either by settling permanently or establishing a family, similar to remarks made earlier by another naturalization candidate, Malick Diouf, who disclosed dating a Filipina. The senator also noted that the comments were part of a friendly exchange with Senator Kiko Pangilinan. The remarks have garnered online criticism and drew attention from other lawmakers such as Congresswoman Leila De Lima, who questioned the conduct of members of the legislature in this regard. Officially, the Senate is responsible for scrutinizing naturalization applicants to ensure their commitment to the country. The inquiry into personal relationships is therefore aimed at fulfilling this responsibility rather than being a personal or intrusive interrogation.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/979149/jinggoy-defends-boyfriend-queries-on-woman-athlete/story/
