Wazzup Pilipinas!?
In a rapidly evolving digital world, it seems that certain media giants are still clinging to the past, and the recent decision by Philippine Star executives regarding THE TRUTH FESTIVAL 2024 sheds light on this ongoing struggle. The controversy began with a sudden announcement—only a day before the event—that influencers would no longer be granted “media access,” contrary to prior agreements made just days earlier.
This change left many wondering whether influencers—who have long been a crucial part of the digital ecosystem—are still regarded as legitimate media representatives. It also raises serious questions about the ongoing transformation of media itself, especially in an age where social media has reshaped how information is shared, consumed, and evaluated.
The Shift from Traditional to Digital Media
For years, traditional media outlets like TV, print, and radio have been regarded as the sole arbiters of news and information. Media companies such as ABS-CBN News, GMA News, INQUIRER.net, The Manila Times, and Manila Bulletin have been the mainstay for credible news dissemination. However, as digital platforms grew in prominence, the role of influencers—content creators, vloggers, and online journalists—began to blur the lines of conventional media.
Wazzup Pilipinas and other online outlets have been at the forefront of this digital revolution. With their expanding reach and influence, many influencers have already proven themselves as trusted voices, capable of shaping public opinion just as much, if not more, than their traditional counterparts. The rising prominence of social media has led to a democratization of the news cycle, where anyone with a platform can create, share, and amplify stories that resonate with their audiences.
This shift, however, hasn’t been smooth for everyone.
THE TRUTH FESTIVAL 2024 Controversy: A Question of Recognition
The timing of the Philippine Star’s announcement—just one day before THE TRUTH FESTIVAL 2024—has left many influencers perplexed and frustrated. Several influencers had already committed to attending, booked their schedules, and even declined other opportunities to make way for the event. Suddenly, being excluded from media access feels like a stark reminder of the media industry's reluctance to fully embrace the digital age.
The question now arises: why exclude influencers from what is supposed to be a platform celebrating truth and transparency? Are we to believe that influencers—who are often the bridge between news organizations and the people—are no longer considered relevant as media figures?
It’s worth noting that the world of media has expanded beyond just TV, print, and radio. Influencers have built their reputations on credibility, trust, and engagement with the audience. The power of their reach is undeniable, and in a way, influencers can be considered the new-age journalists of the digital era. So why does it seem like some in the traditional media still consider influencers as outsiders or non-legitimate?
The MediaQuest Holdings Takeover and the Old Guard
To understand the Philippine Star’s decision, we must look at the bigger picture. MediaQuest Holdings, a subsidiary of the PLDT group, controls a significant part of the Philippine media landscape. Through Hastings Holdings, it manages the operations of major companies like Philstar Daily Inc., Philstar Global Corporation, and Pilipino Star Ngayon. While these traditional outlets play an important role in disseminating news, the world has changed, and they must adapt or risk being left behind in the dust of digital transformation.
Influencers have consistently demonstrated their value as media practitioners, engaging in thorough reporting, offering unique perspectives, and breaking news just as efficiently as traditional journalists. They have been instrumental in highlighting issues often ignored by mainstream media, tackling topics ranging from government transparency to social justice, sustainability, and more.
It’s time to challenge the outdated thinking that only TV, print, and radio deserve the label “media.” The modern media landscape is diverse, and it must evolve to reflect the role of digital platforms, blogs, podcasts, and social media creators in today’s interconnected world.
The Call for Inclusion and Fairness
The events leading up to THE TRUTH FESTIVAL 2024 also raise broader issues about inclusion and recognition. Why should influencers—who have made significant strides in journalism—be excluded from an event that purports to champion truth and transparency? The Festival is meant to unite voices and perspectives, yet it seems to draw a line between the traditional media and digital influencers, unfairly creating a divide that doesn’t align with the principles of inclusivity that the event stands for.
If the festival is truly about recognizing diverse voices and promoting open dialogue, it should reconsider this decision and acknowledge influencers as a legitimate and vital part of the media ecosystem. After all, influencers are among the most engaged media professionals in today’s society, creating content that speaks directly to audiences, often providing fresh perspectives and critical analysis that resonate more authentically than the sometimes stale offerings of traditional outlets.
Conclusion: A New Media Landscape Demands New Thinking
As the world of media continues to evolve, it’s essential for traditional media companies, including those under the MediaQuest Holdings umbrella, to adapt and acknowledge the changing landscape. Influencers should no longer be regarded as outsiders or second-class media representatives. Instead, they should be celebrated for the crucial role they play in shaping public discourse and driving conversations on key issues.
The future of media is digital, and those who fail to recognize this truth may find themselves left behind in an era that no longer distinguishes between traditional and digital forms of communication. It’s time to put away outdated practices and embrace a future where all media voices are treated equally—whether they come from TV studios, print newsrooms, or the social media feeds of influencers.
By doing so, the Philippine Star and other media giants can reaffirm their commitment to truth, transparency, and inclusivity, ensuring that events like THE TRUTH FESTIVAL 2024 truly represent the diverse spectrum of voices in our society.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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