The die has been cast

If Speaker Joe thinks that a meeting with Arroyo would solve his predicament, he's mistaken. The die has been cast. These Congressmen who signed the manifesto can't back out from their commitments. Speaker Joe must understand that his fall is inevitable because Arroyo can't back out from her commitment with these congressmen.

Reports say, Arroyo and JDV entered into a truce. I don't believe that Arroyo will honor this truce. Why? Because if she backs down now, she'll lose considerable power. How would those who signed the manifesto feel? They already exposed themselves. They risk a backlash from the camp of JDV. When they signed that manifesto, they were placing themselves into the lion's den and opened themselves to attack. What about those favours dispensed and promises given to these congressmen just to support the ouster call? What will happen to them?

Also, if Arroyo gives JDV time to recover, JDV could turncoat and support initiatives for Arroyo's impeachment. Sources say, civil society groups are preparing a more solid impeachment complaint against Arroyo. Because of this maneuverings, JDV could support such a complaint and eventually lead to Arroyo's fall before the year ends.

As I've said, Arroyo is at the zenith of her power now. She's the strongest leader now. If she decides to abandon her moves of ousting JDV, she will lose the momentum and could open herself to an ouster attempt.

I can't wait for Monday.