Political scientists have long argued that protests alone rarely transform political systems. Charles Tilly, Sidney Tarrow, and Doug McAdam observed that demonstrations become effective only when they are part of broader political opportunities, sustained organization, and institutional pressure. More recently, Erica Chenoweth's extensive research on civil resistance found that successful movements require persistent participation, strategic organization, and the ability to shift the loyalties of institutions—not merely symbolic marches.

Thousands of Filipinos from various religious denominations, civil society organizations, and advocacy groups marched along EDSA on Sunday in what organizers described as a united call for truth, accountability, and good governance.