Sunday, 23 March 2025
Communicators' Guild leads extension seminar on social media use
by Rujemaella Gonzales, TSU Comm Guild
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[Photos by Conrad Simon]
Hosted by Dean Mhar Madriaga, the Hosting Team Head, the seminar began with an engaging introduction, followed by an opening prayer led by Cristine Tiamzon. The Communicators' Guild members then introduced themselves.
Tiamzon started the discussion by explaining the fundamentals of social media and its various applications while engaging with the participants and emphasizing its proper use.
"With great power comes great responsibility... Social media is powerful because when you post, not only your friends can see it, but the whole world. The more people who see it, the greater our responsibility in using it positively or negatively," she stated.
Additionally, Communicators' Guild junior officer Marie Janice Dela Cruz further elaborated on some benefits of social media and provided guidelines on responsible use.
Furthermore, Romar Bello, Junior officer of Comm Guild, informed everyone about the risks of various social media platforms, especially in marketing, and discussed how to avoid these risks and handle cyberbullying. He also explained how to spot fake news and misinformation, emphasizing the importance of verifying information.
"Social media is powerful, but it is also a very dangerous tool," he warned.
Moreover, the Executive on Audit John Aris Gabriel introduced the acronym T.H.I.N.K. Before You Click (True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind) as a guideline for posting online. He also discussed securing personal information and fact-checking sources to prevent the spread of misinformation.
Subsequently, the Executive on Records Conrad Simon conducted an interactive activity in which he presented scenarios for participants to analyze and respond to, afterwards he gave a meaningful lesson to each scenario.
Host Madriaga also covered key legal aspects, including the Data Privacy Act, Cyberbullying Act, and Cyberlibel. He highlighted the importance of freedom of speech, he stated "Your rights end where the rights of others begin."
In conclusion, Journalism Assistant Team Head Ricky Eslabra shared insights on the various uses of social media and explained how algorithm works, discussing both their positive and negative effects.
The seminar ended with Ricky Eslabra expressing his gratitude to the participants and Comm Guild members for their contributions.
Finally, Mr. Daniel De Guzman explained that the Student Organization Unit he was part of initiated the seminar as part of a four-part extension program, engaging student leaders to share their expertise.
Rehoboth Children's Home was chosen due to existing connections and its need for both material and educational support.
