Digital literacy—the ability to create and share information using technology—is now considered an essential life skill, especially for teenagers, according to digital historian Mona Magno-Veluz.
Speaking at a panel discussion for Safer Internet Day in Taguig City, Magno-Veluz emphasized that having a problematic online history can negatively affect a person’s opportunities in life.
“Digital literacy is a crucial life skill. You cannot succeed if your online history is problematic,” she said, adding that online activity comes with responsibilities. “You can’t just rant online for the sake of it.”
Magno-Veluz highlighted that understanding digital platforms and their impact on behavior is still a learning process for many. “We’re at a stage where these skills don’t yet come naturally,” she explained, noting that studies show venting online doesn’t solve real-world problems.
Her comments came during the launch of TikTok’s #ThinkTwice Troop, a youth advocacy group promoting online safety. The initiative stresses that protecting teens online is a shared duty among families, educators, industry leaders, policymakers, and communities.
The launch coincided with Safer Internet Day, celebrated in the Philippines on the second Tuesday of February under Presidential Proclamation No. 417, which aims to raise awareness about child online safety and prevent online sexual abuse and exploitation.
