ABSTRACT
There are many interesting parallels that can be drawn between PollWatch and civic groups in the Philippines in their workings in civil society. The most obvious parallel is the role that each played in democratic mass movements. In addition to the specific mandates of PollWatch, National Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL), Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) and Voters' Organisation, Training and Education for Clean Authentic and Responsible Elections (Votecare), such groups can also spread out informally in times of crisis to mass movements and civil disobedience. The history of the Edsa Revolution is well-known, this chapter examines how NAMFREL was involved in both elite and mass spaces. The criticism of the undemocratic provisions of the Constitution culminated in a mass rally at Sanam Luang on 19 November 1991 which drew over 70,000 protesters and was the largest public demonstration since October 1976. Democratic participation also meant that people can take part in policy debates, including drafting the constitution.
