Filipinos Shift to TikTok for News Amid Decline in Traditional Social Media Usage
Adult Filipinos are turning away from traditional social media platforms like Facebook for news, opting instead for video-centric TikTok. This shift in news consumption habits reflects a global trend outlined in the Reuters Institute Digital News Report (DNR) released on June 17.
The report highlights the increasing popularity of short news videos, the decreasing prominence of mainstream news media on social media platforms, and ongoing concerns over misinformation. It also notes that while internet users are wary of content generated by artificial intelligence (AI), they are more accepting of AI assisting journalists in tasks like transcribing interviews.
Based on data from an online survey conducted across 47 media markets, including the Philippines, the report shows a significant decrease in Filipinos using Facebook as a news source. This decline is mirrored in other traditional social media platforms like YouTube and Facebook Messenger.
In contrast, TikTok has seen a rise in usage for news in the Philippines, surpassing the average across all markets. This increase is particularly notable among younger Filipinos aged 18 to 24.
The changing landscape of news consumption is driven by factors such as the rise of video networks and private messaging apps offering more personalized news experiences. Meanwhile, legacy social media platforms like Meta (Facebook’s parent company) and X are shifting focus away from news towards other types of content.
Despite these shifts, online and social media remain the primary sources of news in the Philippines. However, the report shows a decrease in news consumption through online platforms and social media, with TV news remaining important for those not online.
The report also examines user needs in news, identifying priorities such as staying updated, gaining knowledge, and receiving practical information. Concerns about misinformation have increased, with Filipinos expressing worry about distinguishing real news from fake news.
Trust in news remains relatively stable, but the report highlights the challenge of identifying trustworthy news, especially on platforms like TikTok and X known for hosting misinformation.
Overall, the changing news consumption habits in the Philippines reflect a broader trend of news fatigue and selective avoidance, with younger consumers showing a decline in interest in news. As the landscape continues to evolve, journalists and publishers will need to work harder to capture and retain audience attention.
