TIKTOK MANIA IN THE PHILIPPINES – A DIGITAL TREND VS…

In a country where culture, and entertainment are so highly valued, this city has also been swept with TikTok madness. The short-form video platform has more than 30 million active users in the Philippines, and is a virtual stage for Filipinos of all ages to showcase their creativity in terms of dancing, singing, acting or comedy. Though some may consider this innocent entertainment and a form of expression, many others are concerned with how it affects the attitudes towards mental health, productivity, and social norms. Are Filipinos literally crazy over TikTok or is there anything that we need to know?

A NATION OF PERFORMERS

Performance and storytelling has long been a part of the Filipino DNA. The spirit of expression runs deep in Filipino culture from traditional folk dances to karaoke nights. And the simplicity of using tiktok or wide diversity in effects and sounds has only built a fertile ground to let out these natural creative ideas. It enables anyone with a smartphone and an appealing concept to connect worldwide. TikTok has been a welcome opportunity for many to showcase their skills, humor and opinions in ways traditional media outlets rarely provide.

A BREAK FROM REALITY

It is essential in so many ways, as it brings a little joy to our lives even in the darkest of times like COVID-19 where we were all locked up at home and could do nothing but wait for this pandemic to pass. One such creative outlet came from TikTok, where people could come together and share the joy in even mundane moments like cooking challenges, dance trends or making skits. Amid a country that is often dominated by economic and political issues, TikTok serves as the space for laughter.

THE WICKED SIDE OF TIKTOK ADDICTION

Digital obsession: The dark side. Research has linked increased time spent on social media to higher levels of anxiety, depression and poorer mental health generally (especially amongst younger people). TikTok is an inherently addictive product; its video feed seems to go on for days, and hours can be wasted on the app. Some worry this may decrease productivity primarily amongst students and young professionals who might get distracted from their field of study or work.

In addition, the emphasis on trends and views can promote an environment where it is easy to feel insecure about putting up content that showcases who we are; rather tryna do things for clout. But it can also promote a culture where people get compared to one another and compete for attention through performing common traits or beauty standards. This can end up in a feeling of not being good enough as someone who expected their content to get likes, enjoys and comments.

THE CULTURAL ECHO CHAMBER AND WITH GREAT POWER, COMES RESPONSIBILITY

The influence of TikTok on Filipinos. It has given the voice to all strata of society- making space for more variety in experiences and perspectives. But by the same token, it also raises questions about content creators and consumers behaving more critically. Like any other powerful weapon is can be used for good and bad.

FUN AND MINDFULNESS IN LIFE.

As the TikTok phenomenon continues to sweep across the country, it is important for users here in The Philippines like elsewhere around the world that they are able to enjoy everything this platform has o offer without falling off a social media edge. It can be a place where young people go to feel good about themselves, and where there are benefits in teaching responsibility; making sure that those using Tik Tok correctly up when they display signs of unhealthy or irresponsible usage. At its core, TikTok represents the Filipino soul: happy, creative and social. But it is down to the responsibility of each individual user to play around in this digital sandbox with a hint of intention and consciousness, making sure that the app stays as a hub for happiness and entertainment. (Boss Mag PH Team)