Social media has become necessary for modern election campaigns, revolutionizing how candidates communicate with potential voters.

Platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube and Instagram offer national and local candidates an unparalleled chance to connect directly with constituents, enabling them to share their messages and policy positions in real time.

Through targeted advertising, live-streaming events and interactive posts, candidates can actively engage in political discourse, responding instantly to voter concerns and feedback.

Whether candidates are tech-savvy or not, they know by now that embracing this tool allows them to enhance their visibility, improve support and ultimately increase their chances of electoral success.

That is why the Commission on Elections (Comelec) regulations on social media accounts during election campaigns raise concerns about the evolving landscape of digital campaigning and the responsibilities of both candidates and platforms.

With only a fraction of senatorial candidates and partylist groups complying with the registration requirement, it becomes clear that there is a big gap in understanding and adapting to the rules that govern modern electioneering.

Comelec’s initiative to require the registration of social media accounts and digital platforms is a commendable step toward ensuring transparency and accountability in political advertising.

Fake news can spread rapidly across the internet; thus, setting guidelines for the use of digital media becomes necessary to safeguard the democratic process.

By holding candidates accountable for their online presence, Comelec aims to mitigate the risks associated with disinformation, reinforcing the integrity of the electoral process.

The stark reality is that many candidates have either been slow to react or failed to recognize the importance of this requirement. The fact that only 29 of 66 candidates have complied suggests a concerning lack of prioritization of these new guidelines.

The oversight raises questions about the knowledge and readiness of candidates to effectively engage with voters in a digital-first world.

The implications of noncompliance cannot be ignored. The threat of removal of content and accounts by Task Force KKK sa Halalan underscores the seriousness of these regulations.

Candidates need to grasp that their digital footprints are not just platforms for communication; they are extensions of their campaigns and affect their relationship with the electorate.

Not being effectively present online could mean losing out on critical voter engagement opportunities, especially among younger demographics who increasingly rely on social media for information.

The same holds true for local candidates. Social media enables them to reach a larger and more diverse audience, including voters from various backgrounds and demographics, helping to spread their message more effectively at cheaper costs.

Candidates can engage with voters in real time, respond to questions, address concerns and participate in discussions. The advanced targeting options allow candidates to tailor their messages to specific audiences based on location, interests and demographics.

Through social media, candidates can mobilize supporters, encourage voter participation, and organize events and rallies. They can share personal stories, experiences, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of their campaign. This humanizes candidates and helps establish a connection with voters, making them more relatable and trustworthy.

While technology platforms like Meta, TikTok and Google have pledged support to adhere to Comelec guidelines, their participation raises concerns about censorship and the subjective nature of what constitutes disinformation. These platforms must maintain a balance between enforcing guidelines and fostering free expression.

The challenge is to ensure these measures do not accidentally suppress legitimate discourse, especially since there is a fine line between misinformation and differing opinions in a democratic society.

(You may send comments and reactions to feedback032020@gmail.com or text 0931-1057135.)