Facebook Philippines launches 'Digital Tayo 2.0' to help netizens on digital literacy, online citizenship

Have you or someone you love been victimized by fake news? Are you worried about your privacy and safety on Facebook?

The social media giant is now expanding its digital literacy program to "help people of all ages learn skills for verifying information on the internet, fostering healthy online relationships, and respectful digital discourse."

In a press conference on Thursday, Facebook announced the launch of "Digital Tayo 2.0," which introduces new resources on digital engagement and digital empowerment.

"The expansion of Digital Tayo is part of Facebook’s continuing effort in the area of digital literacy and online citizenship," a Facebook statement said.

The Digital Tayo program was launched in April 2019 and has already trained 400,000 Filipinos through workshops and webinars.

In a post-training survey among trainees from January 2020 to April 21, 64% of the participants said they have gained confidence in identifying false news.

There's also a 36-percentage point increase in the number of participants who know how to conduct a Facebook privacy check-up.

The Facebook Philippines team said they especially found the importance of "Digital Tayo" amid the pandemic, as more and more people use technology to stay connected and spent a longer time online.

"Together with our partners from government, academe, and civil society, we aim to reach even more Filipinos online, and help them learn to use tools and resources to create more positive online experiences and while staying safe online," said Facebook Philippines Head of Public Policy Clare Amador.

With schooling now online, there's also interactive content  available for students under the Digital Tayo program. Facebook has partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) for the program.

"As online education will be an integral learning modality, we need to ensure students are able to discern well what they see and experience in social media and the rest of the public digital space," said DepEd Director June Gudoy.

"Through the expanded Digital Tayo program, we can equip students with critical thinking skills that allow them to safely navigate the online landscape," he added.

All Digital Tayo digital literacy and citizenship modules and learning resources are free and accessible in www.digitaltayo.fb.com. —MGP, GMA News