It may be unrealistic, but it is difficult to let go of the hope that President Benigno S. Aquino 3rd will eventually be able to make an overseas trip without embarrassing himself or the nation; after all, no one wants to see the enormous outlay of time, financial and manpower resources be completely wasted. Unfortunately, it once again appears as though we will have to wait for the next trip to see if any results—or at the very least, the absence of any serious social or political missteps—can be achieved.