Unifying the Opposition: An Impossible Mission?

A five to six-man field of presidential candidates will most likely seal the victory for the administration, be it a de Castro or a Teodoro led slate. If De Castro runs and gets at least 25-28% of the votes, then, that would spell the end of all opposition aspirations to establish a New Order post-Gloria in 2010.

It is imperative for opposition groups to unify and field a common candidate or at least level the field to two major opposition parties. For example, a party being led by Joseph Erap Estrada combined with Mar Roxas could neutralize the strength of a De Castro led campaign since they have a common constituency. A Chiz Escudero led party could easily puncture the constituency of a Mar Roxas or a Legarda led campaign since they have the same constituencies. While Manny Villar's major support groups criss-cross those of Roxas', Erap's and Escudero's.

The problem is there is no singular candidate that unifies the major sectors of the Philippine electorate. Some would argue that that candidate could be Noynoy but the good senator's political strength is still untested. He is the ideal common candidate yet the realities of 21st century Philippine politics is different from the political circumstances which attended Cory or Ninoy's time. It is a fact that the Aquino political clout has considerably diminished over time and attempts at reviving it could only do so much. Yet, it is not enough to really ensure electoral victory.

There is a strong possibility that Erap is really intent on running and is only looking for his running mate. Now, will Erap be able to use his magic or influence and convince others to just slide down to a senatorial post.