Young Roots
Typhoon updates online
By Johanne Margarette R. Macob
“CLASSES… are suspended.”
That was the kind of trending posts these past days. Classes, and even work, in the earlier days of the week were cancelled due to the inclement weather: the continuous downpour of monsoon rains resulting to heavy flooding in many areas of our dear province.
In the latest weather bulletin I saw, there are at least 13 towns underwater. Typhoon Maring’s habagat (monsoon rains) have been that strong.
All those updates were brought to us by different media, the newest of which – online media – being the most efficient, I believe.
Personally (being a child of the internet age), I’m more into rummaging what’s online to get updated on the recent issues and happenings. Well, most of the time, the online realm gets to be the most convenient media. One can gather info at any time of the day, from multifarious sources.
Again this typhoon period, the different tasks and outlets provided by the social networks have made conveying of updates really fast and effective.
As it has been prevalent, even our local government and media have utilized that tech well.
Our provincial government, through the Public Information Office, was giving us, the media correspondents as well other concerned citizens, typhoon updates mainly through emails or updates on its social network account.
The “Province of Pangasinan (Official)” Facebook account was a very useful go-to site for everyone checking on official updates and announcements. It is regularly updated. No wonder it is well-appreciated as evidenced by it almost 19,000 likes.
Also, there are these social media versions of print and broadcast outfits which have been helpful as well. Our very own Sunday Punch online edition and Facebook account has been consistently brought up-to-date with relevant information.
Further still, individuals who are either part of the media or just really concerned ones have been utilizing their accounts not only for personal use but for public-spirited posts. There are even those citizen journalists uploading pictures and videos to report on the status of their place.
Everyone is getting involved.
The new media has penetrated many people regardless of the socio-economic class, age, religion, and other demographics. A great thing during the bad times such as the onslaught of typhoon that people get involved further through their social media accounts.
So despite all the possibilities of evil deeds online, I have focused on the positive impacts that the internet gives us. It all boils down to how we use it, to our responsibility. It all boils down to us.
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