This paper argues that in the Philippines, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and volunteers play an important part during the COVID-19 pandemic. These groups helped by filling in spaces where the government is not doing enough and providing immediate relief to people in need. They act as watchdogs against the rise of authoritarianism. Francisco Bautista Jr. highlights how restrictive laws such as the Public Solicitation Law, as well as volunteer burnout and state intimidation, hinder grassroots efforts despite their deep historical roots with Bayanihan. To support civic actions, Bautista recommends establishing online information networks among CSOs, setting up citizen participation through legal systems, employing social welfare beneficiaries for emergency programs such as contact tracing, and defending democratic spaces from state intrusion.
READ THE FULL PAPER BELOW:
