As part of its commitment to continue being a safe and welcoming space for self-expression, TikTok hosted its first-ever online safety webinar in the Philippines titled Creating a Safe Online Environment for Creative Expression on August 27, 2020.
- Opening the online event and discussing the safety thrusts of the platform was TikTok Public Policy Head for the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia, Donny Eryastha.
- Sharing experiences with TikTok’s safety features from a parent and a content creator standpoint, celebrity Amy Perez also joined the conversation. Resource speakers from the Department of Education (DepEd) and UNICEF participated and shared each sector’s initiative in maintaining a digitally-safe community.
- A panel discussion moderated by journalist and TV host, Kara Patria David-Cancio, highlighted internet and social media safety topics that are relevant to users in the Philippines.
“Safety is a TikTok priority,” said Donny Eryastha, Head of Public Policy for the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia. He provided viewers with a brief background on the app’s safety policies and features, and the continuing efforts made to ensure the security of their users. Eryastha emphasized that the app’s safety features can be fully realized if content creators and users actively use it, saying, “We encourage our content creators and users to help foster a safer online community. We designed the app with your safety in mind. Our privacy settings enable every user to filter who can view, react, or comment on their posts, as well as to who can duet or download their videos. Take the time to read our Community Guidelines. This will help you better understand the culture of positivity and creativity that we harbor and how you can help maintain a safer community for self-expression.”
Atty. Gil Anthony Aquino, DepEd Child Rights Senior Officer talked about the government’s efforts on digital safety for the Filipino youth. He discussed about online learning transition, the education bureau has quickly adapted to these changes.
Atty. Marj Ardivilla, UNICEF Child Protection Specialist spoke about how everyone can work together to build a safer digital space. UNICEF has been working to protect children online by increasing public awareness, strengthening investigation and prosecution of online sexual abuse and exploitation cases, and improving the delivery of services in the most vulnerable communities.
Celebrity Content Creator, Amy Perez shared her digital journey as a content creator. She talked about how she was able to help promote safe ways to create and share content through various online platforms.
The webinar ended with a Q&A session, which addressed queries from the audience, and provided viewers with additional insights on the topics discussed. All in all, it was an enriching afternoon of learning for all in attendance.
Watch out for more internet safety initiatives from TikTok in the coming weeks. Enjoy a safe and fun online environment when you download TikTok on your iOS and Android devices today.
