MANILA -- Political life is always exciting in this fascinating country of over 7,000 islands, be it in periods of great upheavals, as with the two famous "EDSA" popular movements or during subsequent periods of transition in search of calm and stability, as at the present moment.
A recent visit to the Philippines yielded various impressions. The prevailing image is one of calm after the storm that ushered in a peaceful change of leadership at the Malaganang palace just a few months ago.
Naturally, there is still anxiety and some lingering fears about the "Erap factor," especially given the fact that the country is preparing for elections in May. Judicial complications with regard to the destiny of the former leader and his eventual punishment or pardon unavoidably cast a shadow over these elections and present a crucial dilemma for the new leadership.