EDITORIAL - How social media became a useful tool for politicians

Gone now are the days when political mudslinging is only sidelined to campaign rallies. As they woo voters’ support, candidates would always take advantage of firing accusations at their political opponents once they have the microphone onstage.

Today’s environment is totally different. Technology has made it easy for political candidates to use many avenues to express their views on issues and in the effort to spread information about their platforms and programs.

Take for example social media. Since last year, even before the filing of certificates of candidacy, politicians have been invading Twitter, Facebook, and other channels of social media to flaunt their accomplishments, projects, and program, and to let the public know they live up to the people’s expectations.

Twenty years ago, the only medium for politicians to communicate with the masses was the traditional media --newspaper, radio and television. These three mediums of communication have for decades been the most trusted tool for officials and political candidates to reach the public.

Now, social media has changed the landscape, giving traditional media outfits a run for their money. For one, Facebook has become the dominant venue for many to comment on today’s issues, whether they are political, social, or religious.

With the May 13 midterm elections just around the corner, social media has not only become a stage through which political opponents exchange their views on issues affecting public lives. It has evolved into a vital venue to trade barbs as well.

In Cebu City, re-electionist Mayor Tomas Osmeña and his rival, Vice Mayor Edgar Labella, have been engaging in heated arguments on Facebook as of late over politics, peace and order, and even the illegal butane refilling business, which Osmeña was accused of protecting.

It’s a good thing the constituents themselves have also become participants in Facebook debates as they can always leave their views in the comments section. This makes social media a powerful tool for everyone as far as the coming elections are concerned.