TIME: Will you ask to see Anwar if you go to Kuala Lumpur?
Estrada: That's possible. But I have to be careful. I don't want to be interfering in their domestic affairs. But all leaders should respect human rights.

TIME: What are your biggest accomplishments so far?
Estrada: First of all, I was able to tell our people the true state of our financial situation during my State of the Nation address. And I was able to settle the dispute over Philippine Airlines. I created a presidential commission against organized crime. Within about six weeks, we were able to solve eight kidnappings. I dismissed some prosecutors, sending a message to other corrupt officers that I mean business. Within a month and a half we were able to save some 10 billion pesos [$230 million] lost because of corruption over tax exemptions. And our banking system remains strong.

TIME: Why have so many Marcos associates regained prominence?
Estrada: I have no Marcos cronies in my administration.

TIME: You have taken a softer approach to prosecuting the Marcos family.
Estrada: That's not true. It's been 12 years since the government started spending so much on lawyers. So I said we have to settle this once and for all.

TIME: Did your years as a movie actor help prepare you for being President?
Estrada: A movie actor has an advantage over other public officials. When you play the role of a common person, of a farmer, you talk to the real farmers when you're on location. They tell you their problems. When you play a laborer, you have to feel your role. I've played so many roles, I think this is an advantage. When I talk to people, I have a rapport with the people.

TIME: What's the toughest part of your job?
Estrada: It's tough when you try to deliver what you promised to the people but can't. I want to deliver immediately what I promised, but I can't. Lack of funds. The people are expecting so much from me, especially the unfortunate people. But I can't. That is very frustrating.