Jinggoy Estrada’s recent display at the Senate is a masterclass in how not to behave as a public official. His relentless questioning of resource person Alice Guo, laced with malice and underscored by a smirk reminiscent of his showbiz persona, felt more like a scene from a poorly written soap opera than a serious political inquiry. 

As he pressed on, hoping to trap Guo, she calmly and consistently countered his attacks with the grace of someone who grew up in a farm, grounded and unshaken by the theatrics of a senator seemingly out of his depth. 

Estrada’s street-smart bravado, perhaps honed by years in the limelight, only underscored his desperation to appear in control. Unfortunately for him, his performance left much to be desired. Instead of rattling Guo, he only succeeded in embarrassing himself. Perhaps it’s time for Jinggoy to take a step back and reassess which stage he belongs on.