MANDALUYONG, Metro Manila- To discuss basic characteristics and functions of social media for science and technology (S&T), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through the Science and Technology Information Institute (STII), organized the Social Media Streamlining Seminar on 21-24 June 2016 at Richville Hotel.

Social Media Streamlining Seminar

STII Communication Resources and Production Division (CRPD) Chief Aristotle Carandang explained that social media is a practical and effective tool for use of DOST agencies and offices in promoting S&T programs and services.

The workshop, as discussed by STII Director Richard Burgos, intended to look at the influence of social media to the public, identify best practices for telling effective stories in social media, explain responsible social media behaviors, and develop social media strategies.

Mr. Jonas De los Reyes of Yahoo! Philippines emphasized how social media gives organizations like DOST the ability to connect and build relationships with their stakeholders.

“Because of social media, communication now flows both ways and it has empowered a new breed of more active, vocal (and usually more demanding) consumers,” he also added.

Likewise, Ms. Regina Rosero of Puzzled Owl discussed how social media can be used in communication, advocacy, knowledge and education.

“Social media is a fast lane to the public. Why wait for TV and newspapers to make announcements for you?” she explained.  

In creating compelling stories for social media, Ms. Ana Santos of Rappler mentioned the importance of knowing your audience, anticipating objection, highlighting benefit, and showing instead of telling.

Ms. Rocel Ann Junio of Doctors Without Borders also added that eye catching photographs, inspiring quotes, engaging videos, informative screenshots, and thought-provoking questions are some of engaging contents that can be used in social media.

“We are now living in the world where digital [media] is a persistent layer in almost every aspect of our daily lives,” Mr. Jonas De los Reyes emphasized.

Other speakers during Seminar were Mr. Timothy James Dimacali of GMA News Online, Dr. Jose Camacho of University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) Graduate School, and Dr. Ma. Theresa Velasco of UPLB College of Development Communication.

Last April, the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) and #HealthXPh organized the 2nd Philippine Healthcare & Social Media Summit at Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) to forge partnerships translating tweets, shares and likes to concrete actions that can transform healthcare.