Second of two parts

Gen Z Filipinos are not as active in street protests against corruption in public works projects as they are online. They spent their earlier years indoors due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which partly explains the unwillingness of most of them to leave home and participate in current outdoor protests. They feel it distracts their attention from consuming things online and offline.

Most Gen Zs prefer to share and post online to make the message viral. Some employ witty remarks; others create content that makes the message appealing to young people like them.

With Gen Z presence in social media platforms, international media has recognized their calls against rampant corruption, making the impact far wider than expected. But are they doing enough? Is it enough to be active online and not let their voices be heard beyond the screens?

“Things are slow, but it will get better,” former youth leader Carol Araullo said in an interview. She recalled that during her activist days as a student at the University of the Philippines Diliman, she also questioned the “slowness” of the desired results and thought that the youth should do more than what others did in the past. 

She said that as she gained more wisdom, she understood that even when things seem slow, there is a spark that keeps the protest movement going, and it is imperative to not let it die.

Now retired as chair of the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, Araullo sees the circumstances that the previous generations confronted as different from what the Gen Zs are experiencing now. With decades of pervasive corruption in the government, today’s young people have been robbed of opportunities for development, and of what life should be like for them, she said.

Some Gen Zs may find it difficult to get an education and become activists not only online but offline as well. Certain prejudices and stereotypes now put activism in disrepute. Thus, it is important to be informed on social issues in the communities and to find the courage to fight for the dignity and rights of every Filipino.

Social responsibility 

April Guevarra, 19 years old and a former student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, joined her first protest rally a year ago and became involved in Katribu, an organization advocating for the rights of indigenous communities. 

She is guided by a strong sense of social responsibility, and emphasizes that activism is not for personal gain or clout but is a conscious choice to contribute to the collective struggle.

Guevarra’s leadership style is rooted in humility, rationality, and discipline, ensuring that even in protest, the voices of the masses remain central.

“It is important that we are not forced to become activists,” she said in Filipino. “Don’t be afraid to fight, to skip classes, in order to be part of creating history. Our voice also helps the poor and the workers to assert their rights.” 

According to Guevarra, Gen Z activism in the Philippines is a blend of social consciousness, internet literacy, and active involvement in the lives of marginalized peoples.

She and other Gen Z leaders are characterized by collaborative concern, humility, and disciplined action. They view themselves as members of a mass movement rather than isolated leaders.

Meaningful engagement 

Educational institutions and their structural conservatism often promote progressive behavior but also limit student participation. 

Enlightened Gen Zs underscore meaningful engagement, steer clear of performative activism, and make sure that protest actions address actual societal issues even as the digital age enables quick mobilization and information exchange.

Gen Zs keep in mind that government officials would not be in their positions if it were not for the people. They are waking up to the reality of self-serving “traditional politicians,” are educating themselves in intelligent voting, and are providing platforms to those who truly serve the people. They no longer fall for the usual slogans and advertisements that are useless and irrelevant. They carefully choose their candidates and shine the light on those they deem worthy to serve, not to rule.

Filipinos have the power to change everything, but it is far from happening. Still, as the saying (as well as the song) goes, “Malayo pa pero malayo na” (It’s still far off, but we’ve come this far). Young people are the bearers of hope; their minds are full of the ideas of the previous generations. The torch is constantly passing from one generation to the next, to keep the light alive and in sight.

Gen Z activism in the Philippines has moved beyond digital platforms and extended into the streets and even basketball courts, as indicated in the chant “Ikulong na ’yan mga kurakot! (Jail the crooks!) resonating in nationwide protests and UAAP halftime performances.

Young leaders, such as April Guevarra, engage in collective action not for fame or social media attention, but out of authentic solidarity with marginalized communities and a commitment to challenge entrenched corruption.

Gen Zs are not seeking a perfect future, only a future that is just, dignified and their own. CS

Alessandra L. Causapin and Church Dolatre are completing a bachelor’s degree in international studies at Miriam College in Quezon City. Causapin is majoring in global development and gender studies, and Dolatre is majoring in international politics and peace studies.

Read more: Gen Z and activism: Fighting against corruption