Empowering the Future Generation: A Mixed-Method Study on the Impact of Digital Activism on the Voting Participation of the Filipino Youth

Abstract

Digital activism has become a powerful tool for political and social engagement, fostering civic participation through online calls, protests, and social media campaigns. While its benefits are widely recognized, opinions on its effectiveness in influencing youth voting behavior remain divided, underscoring the need for further research. This study investigates how digital activism impacts voting participation among Filipino youth, focusing on key questions: (1) What are the characteristics and forms of digital activism among Filipino youth? (2) What is the voting participation level of digitally active youth in the 2022 Philippine National Elections? (3) What is the correlation between digital activism and voting participation? (4) How does digital activism empower youth voting? (5) What factors shape its impact on youth voting participation? (6) How can digital activism be optimized for better engagement? The study employs a mixed-method approach, integrating Descriptive Phenomenology for qualitative insights and Pearson’s Correlation Analysis for quantitative data. It focuses on youth aged 20–30 from four barangays in Novaliches, Quezon City, specifically in District 5 and District 6, all of whom participated in the 2022 Philippine National elections. Furthermore, methodological triangulation enhances the study's validity. Findings reveal a positive correlation between digital activism and youth voting participation, with higher engagement noted in barangays like Baesa, San Bartolome and Sta. Lucia. Digital activism fosters awareness and participation through engaging content, though challenges such as misinformation persist. Recommendations emphasize creative, inclusive strategies to amplify its role in empowering democratic engagement.