Opportunists in the business community are surely elated over the guiity verdict against former President Estrada.

According to one business analyst: “A guilty verdict is the market’s best bet. This may lead to people power, but this can be easily addressed by the current administration, which has the full support of the police and military.”

He continued: “With an acquittal, you are setting Erap on the loose. This will lead to a stronger opposition. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will be tied to political issues raised by the stronger opposition, which means economic reforms will need to take a backseat.”