Considering the highly charged state of relations between the Philippines and Kuwait today, it is best for Filipino officials and bureaucrats to take a deep breath or a long pause before issuing another statement about the relationship. No cause is advanced by the DFA demanding Kuwait to explain its expulsion of our ambassador; nor will the two cents of presidential spokesman Harry Roque remove any hurdle toward improved relations.

It is important to remember that this is not about which side will have the last word or who can appeal more effectively to the passions of domestic audiences.