Jinggoy defends ‘boyfriend’ queries on woman athlete

Senator Jinggoy Estrada on Saturday defended his recent remarks about American basketball player Elizabeth Means’ romantic relationships, saying they were meant as friendly banter with Senator Kiko Pangilinan.

In a "24 Oras" Weekend report, Estrada faced criticism online, while Congressman Leila De Lima also called him out, questioning the conduct of lawmakers.

Estrada made the comments during Means’ hearing before the Committee on Justice and Human Rights on March 3, which was held to discuss her naturalization. He had asked whether Means had a Filipino boyfriend.

Means, an American women’s basketball player, is currently seeking naturalization for the Philippines and a prospect for the Gilas Pilipinas Women’s 3x3 team.

In her Senate testimony, Means said she is pursuing Philippine citizenship as part of her bid to represent the country in international basketball competitions, mainly the 2028 Olympics.

Estrada, however, explained that his controversial remark came to mind after Maodo “Malick” Diouf, another basketball player and naturalization candidate, mentioned that he was dating a Filipina.

“It was asked within the context of determining her reasons for seeking naturalization as a Filipino," he said.

"Part of the Committee’s responsibility is to understand whether applicants intend to truly make the Philippines their home—whether by settling here permanently or establishing a family in the future,” he added.—Jiselle Anne Casucian/MCG, GMA Integrated News