In a significant move for advocacy and inclusivity, TikTok partnered with Autism Society Philippines, the Local Government of Quezon City, and SM Cares to host “Adbokasya sa Social Media” during National Disability Rights Week. This event aimed to empower individuals with disabilities and their supporters to use social media as a powerful advocacy tool.
The event provided practical insights into building a purposeful online presence, creating strategic content, and engaging with communities. TikTok creators Mona Magno Veluz (Mighty Magulang), Chef Gelo Guison, Riyan Portuguez (The Millennial Psych), Your Tita Baby, and Mathilda Airlines shared their strategies for crafting impactful messages and overcoming the challenges of online advocacy.
Mona Magno-Veluz, National Spokesperson of the Autism Society Philippines, emphasized the importance of meaningful content. She stated, “To truly leverage social media for advocacy, your content must reflect a clear mission and genuine intent. It’s about more than just following trends; it’s about creating meaningful, engaging content that respects and represents the community. Authenticity and consent are crucial, especially when discussing sensitive topics like disability. We need to ensure our content not only resonates but also upholds the values of respect and inclusivity.”
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The event also highlighted the significant role of social media in shaping public perceptions and fostering an inclusive online environment. Chef Gelo Guison and Mathilda Airlines discussed the need for resilience in content creation, while Riyan Portuguez stressed the importance of accessible and thoughtfully presented messages. Your Tita Baby highlighted the power of platforms like TikTok in reshaping perceptions and providing visibility for marginalized communities, including the drag community.
Bea Bautista, Communications Lead for the Philippines and Malaysia at TikTok, underscored the shared responsibility of creators, users, and the platform in maintaining a safe and inclusive space. She said, “Creating a safe and inclusive space on TikTok is a shared responsibility. It’s crucial for creators, users, and the platform to work together to ensure a safe place where everyone can express themselves creatively and authentically. Your posts and interactions matter—by being mindful of what you share and engage with, we can all contribute to a safer and more respectful online community.”
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This collaboration between TikTok and the Autism Society Philippines demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering inclusivity and amplifying diverse voices. By offering a platform for advocacy, TikTok supports creators from all backgrounds in driving positive societal change.
Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #AdbokasyaSaSocialMedia and follow GoodNewsPilipinas.com for more inspiring stories about inclusivity and positive change in the Philippines.
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