His visit will last only 8 hours, but the frenzy surrounding it will last for weeks or even months to come.

For President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the visit of the quasi-American emperor is a needed boost to her presidency, her coming campaign and her worldwide image, notwithstanding that the image of George W. Bush worldwide is increasingly becoming contemptible.

For the other administration biggies and groupies, it’s a hopeful photo-op and a hopeless attempt to be significant.

For the opposition, it’s wait and see. To become too noisy at this point might jeopordize their own campaign since, like it or not, the U.S. of A. is still a world power to kowtow to.

For the cause-oriented groups, they’ll demonstrate against anything that moves so long it puts them before the TV cameras and on the front pages of dailies.

For the police and armed forces, it’s a major headache.

For former President Joseph Estrada, it’s a time to try and say something intelligent so he’ll be perceived as a statesman and not a braggart.

For the average Filipino, it’s a season to grant interviews to man-on-the-street journalists and utter the more sensible and wise comments.

For me, it’s time to end this particular blog, lie down to sleep and hope that each new day would bring a better Philippines and an even better Filipino.