The impact of social media on political participation and awareness among Filipino youth

Chapter 1

Introduction:

In the archipelago of the Philippines, a nation characterized by its vibrant youth population, the
surge of social media has become an influential force in shaping the political landscape. With
platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram serving as pervasive channels of
communication, the impact of social media on the political awareness and participation of
Filipino youth is a dynamic and evolving phenomenon. This case study seeks to unravel the
multifaceted relationship between social media and political engagement, examining how it
influences the political consciousness and participation patterns of the Filipino youth.

Problem Statement and its Settings

The advent of social media in the Philippines has introduced both opportunities and challenges to
the political engagement of the youth. The problem at the heart of this case study is the need to
comprehend the impact of social media on political awareness and participation among Filipino
youth. While these platforms offer avenues for information dissemination, community building,
and expression of political views, concerns persist about the spread of misinformation, the
formation of echo chambers, and the potential polarization of political discourse.

The dynamic nature of social media, coupled with the diversity of the Filipino youth population,
necessitates a nuanced investigation into the ways these platforms shape political attitudes and
behaviors. Understanding the impact of social media on political engagement among Filipino
youth is crucial for policymakers, educators, and community leaders to foster informed civic
participation while mitigating the negative consequences associated with online political
discourse.

This study will be conducted across various regions of the Philippines, encompassing both urban
and rural areas. The research will take into account the diverse cultural, social, and economic
backgrounds of Filipino youth to provide a comprehensive understanding of how social media
impacts political awareness and participation across different contexts.

The research will also consider the specific social media platforms popular among Filipino
youth, exploring how these platforms shape their political behaviors. Additionally, the study will
investigate the role of digital literacy, education, and socio-economic factors in mediating the
relationship between social media and political engagement among Filipino youth.
Through this case study, we aim to contribute valuable insights into the unique dynamics of
social media and its impact on political participation among Filipino youth. By understanding the
nuances of this relationship, we hope to inform strategies that empower the youth to engage
meaningfully in the political process while navigating the challenges presented by the digital age.
Ultimately, the goal is to foster an informed, active, and critically engaged Filipino youth
population in the realm of politics and civic affairs.