It is common to hear that today’s generation has the world in the palm of its hands. Stating an opinion has become as easy as clicking a button on a mobile phone, with the brave souls who choose to share what they think opening themselves up to both praise and scrutiny. At times, ease of access has led to division among those with differing views, as exemplified—magnified a hundredfold—in the recently concluded national elections. Open letters continue to spread like wildfire and memes spark discussions that often end in name-calling.
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Photo: Kirsten Ramos
Still, it is not only the ruthless nature of online discussion that makes it problematic. Speaking out online means that not only our frustrations but also our good actions stay online. Many of us remain oblivious to the effects they can have in real life; the potential for positive change is significantly lessened. One reason for this is that we are discouraged by our age. We think we are too young to make a difference, so we do not dare to overstep the boundaries of our online platforms.
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Photo: Cameron Kirby
#GoodFilipinos, a movement of ordinary citizens advocating for good citizenship and good governance, tells us we can help in the real world. Young people like us no longer have to succumb to the limits of age or hide behind a screen. In this movement, we are empowered to uphold the very things we preach: Follow traffic rules. Fall in line. Respect one another. Be the reason our government works harder. Stay resilient, and inspire government to stay resilient. Decry what is wrong, and encourage what is good. Start young. Be #GoodFilipinos now.
Visit bit.ly/GoodFilipinos to join the movement.
Kirsten Ramos is a Program Coordinator at the Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA). Send her an e-mail through [email protected].[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]