PR1 RT3
PR1 RT3
PR1 RT3
NEZAN A. QUIRIT
Research Adviser
0
Acknowledgement
This research endeavor owes its success to the diligent efforts and active
collaboration of the group members throughout the entire process. The fruition of
"Social Media Influence on Voter Decisions" from inception to completion hinged on the
prioritization of teamwork.
Our heartfelt gratitude extends to all the informants who generously dedicated
their time and effort to make the interviews possible. Their valuable contributions formed
the foundation of our research study, and we express our sincere thanks for their
participation.
Special appreciation also goes to our Research Adviser, Ms. Mary Joy P. Piella.,
for her unwavering assistance and support throughout the research duration. We also
To our parents, we convey our appreciation for their understanding and steadfast
support, as their patience and care have played a pivotal role in sustaining our efforts.
Above all, we acknowledge and thank our Almighty God for guiding and blessing
us with the intellect to create this work. We express gratitude for providing us with
strength, wisdom, and determination, as well as for safeguarding us and fortifying our
1
Abstract
The findings indicate a shift in voter behavior, with a growing emphasis on digital
literacy and critical thinking as essential skills to navigate the digital information
landscape. Voters are now more aware of the consequences of misinformation and feel
a duty to engage responsibly with online content. The study underscores the importance
of empowering voters through educational initiatives that promote these skills, enabling
them to make well-informed political decisions despite the complexities introduced by
social media. The study indicates that while social media has democratized access to
political information, it has simultaneously complicated the process of informed
decision-making, emphasizing the need for increased digital literacy to ensure a more
knowledgeable electorate.
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 1
ABSTRACT 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS 3
CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION
Research Design 18
Research Environment 18
Research Instrument 18
Research Informants and Selection Criteria 19
Research Procedure 19
Data Analysis Procedure 20
3
CHAPTER IV PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA
Informants’ Background 21
Summary of Findings 22
Conclusion 25
Recommendations 26
REFERENCES 27
APPENDICES
Appendix A
Approved Letter Request for an Adviser 29
Appendix B
Approved Letter to the Informants 30
Appendix C
Interview Transcripts
Table 2.1. Interview Question 1 31
Table 2.2. Interview Question 2 32
Table 2.3. Interview Question 3 34
Table 2.4. Interview Question 4 36
Table 2.5. Interview Question 5 37
Table 2.6. Interview Question 6 39
Table 2.7. Interview Question 7 40
CURRICULUM VITAE 42
4
Chapter I
Introduction
Social media is a new type of information network and technology that facilitates
through interactive and user-produced content. All age groups find it fascinating to use
social media, which connects to the world with less time and effort than other forms of
media. People these days like using social media to communicate with one another and
to inspire themselves to come up with new ideas and expressions. Social media has
been the most popular instrument for political parties to use during elections to connect,
influence, and communicate their vision and goals in an effort to acquire the majority or
Section 1 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, "suffrage may be exercised by all citizens"
and "its enjoinment is absolute," meaning that, unlike other laws or rights prior
order to vote. The right to suffrage is a constitutionally protected right that is granted to
every citizen in the nation. The use of social media by politicians has fundamentally
altered political communication by facilitating direct and immediate interaction with the
public. Smith and Johnson (2021) emphasize that platforms like Twitter and Facebook
constituents.
5
Political engagement is essential in democracies because it gives citizens a
voice in national governance and the ability to hold their elected officials responsible.
political parties, going to political events, and getting in touch with elected officials
(Ahmad & Fadi, 2019). Political figures and aspirants to public office now have to run
their campaigns in a multi-platform environment using both new digital media, especially
social media, and more conventional channels like radio, television, and newspapers
(Taras & Davis, 2022). Many countries have seen a decline in the popularity of
including a lack of faith in political parties and institutions and a sense of disengagement
from the political process, have been cited to explain this tendency (Zagidullin et Al.,
2021). The internet is a new political combat zone where different online news websites
shape voter’s opinions, getting gradually more involved in social media to gather
information on political parties before they go out to vote (Arabani, et. Al., 2022). Kevin
Carney (2022) notes that while social media can enhance information access, it may
also spread misinformation and oversimplified narratives. Fake news may become more
widely known as a result of the algorithmic filter bubbles and echo chambers that have
Thus, the primary goal of this study is to comprehend the ways in which social
6
Statement of the Problem
to understand the influence of social media on voter decisions. To fulfill this objective,
1. How do voters perceive the role of social media in shaping their electoral
decisions?
2. How has the rise of social media influenced voter engagement and decision-
3. How do the different types of social media contents significantly influence voter
preferences?
4. How do voters cope with the challenges faced from the political information and
aware of and shedding light on how voters form their ideas and make decisions.
contexts.
7
Administrators. School administrators can use the findings to design programs
that encourage critical thinking and responsible social media use, ensuring that children
Teachers. To give teachers insights into the function of social media in forming
ideas, allowing them to create educational programs that promote critical analysis of
impact on voters, which future researchers can adopt or refine. It highlights effective
This study only focused on ten (10) citizens who have experienced both
traditional media and new media during elections. This study excludes those who have
not experienced traditional media during elections, as well as those who have
experienced traditional media but have not engaged with new media during elections.
Definition of Terms
To better understand the study, the following terms are defined as follows:
Social Media – the websites and applications that enable users to create and
environment.
8
Political Campaign - an organized effort which seeks to influence the decision
Interaction – is action that occurs between two or more entities, generally used
9
Chapter II
Social Media
Over three billion individuals worldwide assert that they regularly utilize social
social networking sites. According to the majority, they check their social media
accounts many times a day and utilize them on a daily basis (Saiphoo, et. al., 2020).
Information and communication technologies have altered the way everything is done
YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram are among the most popular social networking
Social media facilitates the generation, expression, and broad exchange of ideas
inside a country and its societies. Social media technology is so broad that it includes
crowd sourcing, voice over intellectual property, blogging, photo sharing, wall posting,
music sharing, and much more (Kumar, Ghouse, Reddy, 2021). Social media mobilizes
political support and social movements and impacts public opinion in modern society by
offering forums for discourse and information sharing, however issues such as filter
10
Traditional Media
as a platform for grassroots public opinion positions and public opinion expression.
Despite the emergence of digital channels, traditional media is still very important to
and public opinion, strengthening social cohesiveness and stability (Zhao, 2024). The
swift emergence of new media has presented both enormous opportunities and
challenges for traditional media. On the one hand, new media's distinctive
communication strategies and interactivity have drawn a sizable user base, placing
traditional media under intense competitive pressure. On the other hand, new media
also offers traditional media the chance to innovate and integrate new media elements,
Politicians and citizens now communicate in a whole new way thanks to the
mass media. Since the media is so vital to the propagation of political knowledge,
political education, and the process of influencing the general public to take particular
and respect for hierarchy have all diminished. Although the media, including radio,
television, and the press, were established at distinct times, they all altered political
communication norms and established new ones (Obradovic, 2023). Traditional media
11
Social Media Political Campaigns
According to Abid and Royof (2023), social media has become a dominant
aspect of political marketing, allowing for direct interaction between voters and political
brands. This interaction differentiates social media from traditional media, making it a
crucial tool for political candidates. Election dynamics are evolving as politicians
increasingly utilize social media to enhance their campaign strategies. These platforms
allow candidates to engage directly with voters, share campaign materials, and build
(Balakamaraguru & Ganesh, 2024). Candidates and political parties realized how
powerful social media sites like WhatsApp, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook could be
in influencing public opinion, reaching people, and winning them over. Social media has
benefits, but it also has drawbacks, like the potential for disinformation to proliferate and
particularly when analyzed closer to election day (Rita, et. al., 2023). It enables direct
However, it also brings challenges like misinformation and divisive content, which
threaten democratic processes and public discourse (Gupta, et. al., 2020). Social media
plays a big impact in reaching out to voters who are marginalized, increasing public
involvement, and providing access to political information. Social media gives everyone
a platform to organize political movements, take part in political discourse, and make
12
sure that all citizens' opinions are heard, which strengthens democracy (Sjoraida et Al.,
2024).
Voter Behavior
and plays a vital part in the operation of democratic regimes. According to Vecchione et.
al. (2019), higher extraverted people are more likely to support political parties or
politicians that place a strong emphasis on charisma and aggressiveness. Leaders who
are gregarious and dynamic tend to attract extraverts, whereas introverts could be
inclinations and orientations are shaped by personality factors, which in turn might affect
indicating that many people make decisions not only on logic but also on ingrained
habits and society standards. Voter behavior can be influenced by various voting
systems, strategies such as approval voting could result in voting patterns that support
less divisive politician (Oreský, et. al., 2023). Ideologies, manifestos, debates, and
celebrity endorsements can all have an impact on voter behavior, influencing attitudes
Social networks have become potent instruments that can sway people's voting
13
dynamics and their ramifications in order to effectively negotiate the nexus of
technology, social networks, and democracy (Kulachai, et. al., 2023). Active social
media users exhibit a significantly higher probability of intending to vote, underlining the
importance of active engagement in social media. They also found platform-specific and
information on social media and the perceived reliability of the information source play
voting patterns and the state of the economy. While policies vary significantly, voting
intentions and public opinion may remain relatively stable due to political parties'
and arranging or influencing people's preferences and sympathies, the media can
likewise stifle the free exchange of ideas in politics (Heywood, 2021). Challenges such
concerns about the quality of information and its impact on democratic processes
political concerns, and this was proven to be a major factor affecting sharing behavior.
Another reason is the desire to influence or attack others through information sharing,
14
promoted through social media. Examples of illiberal forces include hate organizations,
consumption offers channels for people and groups to absorb and disseminate false
2019).
Social media has low entrance barriers and is mostly based on user-generated
content. Low entrance barriers make gatekeeping the flow of political information far
less effective, permitting new entrants who were previously ignored by the political elite
(Enikolopov et al., 2020). Content from all around the world is shared, which can lead to
a lot of misinformation among young adults who don't fact-check all of their sources.
False news on Twitter, for example, spread much faster and more generally than
accurate stories, and the larger diffusion of false stories makes them more valuable for
15
Theoretical Background
This study is anchored on the Agenda Setting Theory that was first introduced by
Maxwell McCombs and Donald Shaw in 1972. This theory explores the ways in which
the media shapes public opinion and helps push particular issues to the forefront. The
development of technology has made it possible for politicians to use it as a tool for their
campaign materials, which could influence voters' decisions. The public agenda is the
primary topic of concern for society's members or the general public. The aspects are
emphasized in the media and hence make people believe they are significant.
According to this notion, the salience and necessity for orientation in news coverage
Reality Agenda
Perception of
Reality
16
17
Conceptual Framework
The model below provides an input, process, and output depiction of the study’s
conceptual framework. The input consists the experiences and perceptions of the
voters. The chosen method for data collection is One-on-One Interviews, Recordings,
and Verbatim Transcription. Researchers will conduct detailed interviews with voters to
fully comprehend the influence of social media on their perceptions. The output of this
18
Chapter III
Methodology
Research Design
This study used the qualitative method and specifically the phenological
approach to delve into the difficult series and the live experience of the voters on how
Research Environment
The interview was conducted around Bais City, Negros Oriental. The interview
took place in a quiet and comfortable setting, depending on the informant’s preferences.
fostering a place where the informants are comfortable enough to share their
Research Instrument
19
Research Informants and Selection Criteria
The informants were chosen based on their social media exposure. The
researchers used a purposive sampling technique to identify voters who are more
experiences.
Research Procedure
that would support the study. A brief overview of the objectives and purpose of the
research was provided to each participant. Each individual was assured that all
information was treated with the utmost confidentiality and that impartiality was upheld.
Participants was not forced to complete the study and may withdraw at any time without
interview, researchers posed questions only related to the study and sought
20
Data Analysis Procedure
This study's data analysis approach used both thematic analysis and the Colaizzi
profile as well as how social media influences voters through campaign materials,
events, influencers and endorsements, and digital narratives. After transcribing the
interviews verbatim to correctly capture the respondents' exact words, thematic analysis
media influence. This process entails becoming familiarized with the data, developing
initial codes, grouping patterns, and refining topics that correspond to the structure of
the questionnaire. Simultaneously, the Colaizzi Method was used to generate deeper
statements, creating meanings, grouping themes, and integrating the findings to create
influence’s public opinion, with an emphasis on the public agenda and societal
concerns.
21
Chapter IV
Informants’ Background
Frequency of Exposure to
Informants Age
Social Media
1 59 Always
2 59 Usually
3 67 Always
4 74 Always
5 61 Always
6 65 Usually
7 75 Always
8 69 Always
9 77 Always
10 60 Always
22
Table 1 presents the data of each informant, ranging in age from 59 to 77 years,
along with their frequency of exposure to social media. Most informants (8 out of 10)
report being "Always" exposed to social media, indicating high engagement levels. The
remaining two informants, aged 59 and 65, report "Usually" being exposed.
Summary of Findings
The majority of respondents reported that social media platforms provide them
with substantial political information, making them feel more informed about current
events and issues related to the candidates and policies. For many voters, social media
has become a primary source of information, providing timely updates and insights that
would otherwise take longer to access through traditional media sources. However, this
expressed concerns about the prevalence of misinformation and fake news, highlighting
the difficulty in verifying sources and confirming the accuracy of content on social media
platforms.
evolved over time. In the past, many voters relied heavily on hearsay, through radio and
TV, and actions of the candidates to learn about political information and issues.
Although this process allowed for local insights, it often lacked the speed and breadth of
information that social media now provides. However, respondents also noted that,
unlike today, verifying information in those earlier times felt easier. They could gauge
the credibility of the information based on the direct actions and visible behaviors of
candidates, who were often more connected with the community. Candidates’ integrity
23
and reliability were observable in real life, which gave voters a stronger basis for
With the advent of social media, respondents have found themselves adopting
new practices to navigate this changing information landscape. Many noted that while
social media offers more information than traditional media, it also necessitates fact-
checking to ensure reliability. This often involves consulting reliable sources, cross-
balanced view. This shift in approach has added a layer of complexity for voters, who
When asked to compare social media with traditional media, respondents were
divided in their opinions. Many appreciate social media’s convenience and speed, which
allows them to stay updated on political news and developments in real time, creating a
sense of immediacy that traditional media struggles to match. They valued how social
media’s constant updates enabled them to follow political issues more closely, making it
viewed traditional media as more reliable. They highlighted that the rigorous fact-
checking and editorial standards in traditional news outlets help filter out unverified
information, offering a more stable, if slower, source of news. This reliance on traditional
media reflects a longing for the perceived stability and trustworthiness it offers,
particularly in an era where the truth can often feel elusive on social media.
The study also found that while respondents value the accessibility and breadth
24
the information they consume. Many explained that because of social media’s wide
reaching influence, they felt the need to stay well-informed and avoid spreading
unverified information within their networks. This shift has not only impacted their views
on candidates and political issues but has also influenced their general outlook on
political participation. Respondents shared that having this range of information makes
them feel more engaged in the political process but also creates an obligation to act
with caution, as they recognize the potential effects of misinformation on other voters.
Respondents were divided in their views on whether the era of social media is an
improvement over traditional media for political information. Some participants favored
social media, emphasizing its convenience and the speed at which information is
disseminated, which they believe helps them stay updated more efficiently than
traditional media. On the other hand, a portion of respondents argued that traditional
media remains more reliable. They expressed concerns that social media has
how these dynamics influence their mood and energy. Most respondents reported that
social media plays a crucial role in keeping them informed about political issues and
events. They noted that the accessibility and breadth of information available on social
media made them feel a greater sense of responsibility to stay informed and engaged in
the political process. The research data dives deeply into the perceptions and
25
Chapter V
Conclusion
attitudes and voting decisions. The research reveals that social media has become a
primary source of political information, providing voters with quick access to updates
and insights about candidates, policies, and current events. However, this ease of
actively fact-check and cross-reference sources. Respondents also noted the evolution
of political information, observing that while social media offers a broader range of
content than traditional media, it often lacks the credibility and stability of more trusted,
established outlets.
increasingly feel it is their duty to verify information and avoid contributing to the spread
far-reaching consequences that misinformation can have on public opinion and political
outcomes. It emphasizes the necessity of digital literacy and critical thinking as crucial
skills in the digital age. These skills enable voters to discern credible information from
26
The findings suggest that while social media has democratized access to political
decision-making more challenging. The study advocates for educational initiatives that
promote these essential skills, helping voters navigate an evolving media environment
confidently. Ultimately, it underscores the need for digital literacy and critical thinking to
help voters address the complexities of the modern information landscape and make
Recommendations
researchers are encouraged to broaden their scope by exploring additional factors that
may shape individuals' voting decisions on these platforms. This expanded focus would
allow researchers to gain deeper insights into the diverse experiences and influences
Increasing the sample size would also be valuable, as a larger pool of informants
could provide a more comprehensive view of varied voting behaviors. This approach
would contribute to greater reliability and accuracy in the findings, supporting more
27
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APPENDICES
30
Appendix B (Approved Letter to the Informants)
31
Appendix C (Interview Transcripts)
32
sa angay botahan.”, t issues
- In your opinion, how do social media campaigns differ from traditional media? Which
33
kasagaran. Karon, ang social social media’s
media naghatag ug real-time benefits
nga mga updates apan
kinahanglan gayud susihon ug
maayo ang mga tinubdan pero
bisan daghan ug fake news ron
kay mas ganahan ko aning naa
nay facebook, tiktok ana, kay
daghang syag benefits nga
dala.”
34
Informant 9 “Sauna kay lisod gyud kung Recognition of
ikumpara karon kay karon kay social media’s
murag impormasyon na ang connectivity
muduol nimo, dili pareha sauna
nga mangita pagyud ta. Mas
prefer nako ni rong naa nay
facebook kay mas dali maka
communicate ug makakalap
ug impormasyon”
- Do you feel more informed, overwhelmed, or skeptical when using social media for
35
eleksyon, maglibog nako kung multiple
unsa moy tuohan tungod perspectives
daghan kaayo ug
impormasyon.”
36
- How do you think the spread of misinformation or fake news on social media platforms
37
Informant 7 “Makadaot gyud siya. Ako gani, Personal
dali ko makatuo usahay susceptibility to
tungod sa ka grabe sa ipang fake news
post sa mga tawo.”
- Do you think social media shows people content that pushes them toward certain
38
their opinions and this can can impact
significantly impact the perspectives
people’s perspectives since
they heard other opinions.”
39
people to vote certain
candidates.”
- During the election when social media was not present yet, was differentiating factual
40
malibog nakos kadaghan sa reliability of past
impormasyon ron kay sauna media due to
murag mas kasaligan pa overload of
tungod dyutay ra ang information in
impormasyon.” social media
- Do you fact check the information you read or see online? How?
41
daghan na kaayog fake news information
ron, usahay kay mangutana through external
ko.” verification or
questioning
CURRICULUM VITAE
42
JASMINE KIANSHI BASCO
Personal Information
Sex: Female
Number: 09150524055
Age: 17
Nationality: Filipino
Education
43
Personal Information
Sex: Female
Number: 09107237971
Age: 18
Nationality: Filipino
Religion: Catholic
Education
44
Personal Information
Sex: Male
Number: 09604078968
Age: 17
Nationality: Filipino
Education
45
Personal Information
Sex: Female
Number: 09058801431
Age: 17
Nationality: Filipino
Education
46
Personal Information
Sex: Female
Number: 09755114172
Age: 17
Nationality: Filipino
Religion: IFI
Education
Elementary School
47
Personal Information
Sex: Male
Number: 09751823329
Age: 17
Nationality: Filipino
Education
48
Personal Information
Sex: Female
Number: 09291325773
Age: 17
Nationality: Filipino
Education
School
49
50