Hear me out on this. Do you ever get the feeling that online bias in social media is becoming more mob-like rather than constructive? Think about it. If you look through recent social media trends, you’ll see an echo chamber of negativity forcing a certain narrative instead of accepting something factual and true.
Let’s talk about recent events. The Philippines is one of those countries often known for doing well in events involving pageantry. Let’s face it—it’s also one of the biggest claims to fame that almost every Juan could brag about. Now, imagine if the Philippines didn’t do well.
Chelsea Manalo failed to reach the top 12 in the recently concluded Miss Universe competition this 2024. One Facebook post that garnered heavy criticism had a headline: “Chelsea Manalo, Natalo.” Translated word for word into English, it reads, “Chelsea to Win, Lost.” While it may sound insensitive, it literally stated what happened. Wouldn’t you know it, the reactions were heavily slanted towards frustration.
Online mockery is a norm in this social media-heavy age of ours. This leads to accounts popping up randomly and instances of cyberbullying. However, it feels surreal to see the majority taking this seriously—sometimes way too seriously—when there are more pressing matters. For example, there are four upcoming storms within the span of 10 days or important issues happening in the government right now.
If pageantry isn’t something most resonate with, let’s talk about a topic that many would: music. BINI is a girl group based in the Philippines with hit singles like Pantropiko. If you haven’t heard of them or their music, you’re probably living under a rock. All things considered, the fact that they’re reaching mainstream success in other countries already says a lot about how good they are and how they should be valued.
Would you believe there was an outcry when the group’s ticket prices reached the level of international acts? I could understand complaints from non-KPOP or non-music enthusiasts. However, downplaying our own talent simply because they’re internationally valued? That’s rich, especially if the same complainers would book flights or spend thousands to watch international acts.
There’s a bias towards tradition that doesn’t seem fair to the modern day. Nostalgia is a hell of a drug, but being grounded in delusion is worse than ignoring what’s currently happening. The fact that there are calls to separate Facebook for seniors and other users already says a lot.
Before I end this conversation, let me paint another picture for you. Imagine winning the Olympics and being a two-time gold medal athlete. Participating in the event is a big deal by itself, but winning? That’s bliss—or it should be, if it weren’t for familial drama.
This is the only individual in Philippine history to win two gold medals in the Olympics in the same event (so far). However, because of dirty laundry aired out by their mother, all the focus shifted to what could’ve been or what should’ve been, instead of what actually happened.
While a refocus on the family could’ve happened for a while, the diversion went on for far too long. It undermined the success we all should’ve celebrated—all for the sake of being in the right. The Olympics ended months ago, but “mother knows best above all else” became the sentiment shared by seniors absorbed with social media. Even celebrities chimed in, with news outlets following suit. Again, weren’t these discussions best left within the family?
While conformity shouldn’t be as rampant as it currently is, there should still be room to freely express yourself online without being shackled by tradition. Repercussions are a given, especially in a public environment. That said, putting your ideals or idols on a pedestal isn’t necessary. Feel free to laugh or have an opinion without being a jerk, but make sure you know where you actually stand.
