This document discusses the role of civil society organizations (CSOs) like NGOs and their relationship with political parties in a democratic system of governance. It outlines how CSOs provide a space for citizen participation and advocacy for reforms outside of traditional political structures. The document also notes that some CSOs, through their technocrat-activists, helped develop the agenda for President Benigno Aquino III, known as the "social contract", and analyzes the collaboration between CSOs and Aquino's campaign. It provides a framework for CSOs to locally network with political parties through focus on common issues and maintaining organizational independence.