Philippine E-Journals

RECLAIMING THE NARRATIVE: ONLINE DISCOURSES OF POST-PANDEMIC FUTURES

ALWIN C. AGUIRRE | MICHELLE G. ONG | PRINCESS LOVELLA MATURAN | PAUL DANIELLE LABOR | JOSE FRANCISCO SANTIAGO | DIWA MALAYA QUIÑONES | MA. CECILIA GASTARDO-CONACO

 

Abstract:

The profound changes in our lives and understanding of the world because of the COVID-19 health crisis have greatly affected both our personal and social well-being. In addition, the narrow way by which dominant structures have controlled the meanings we can make of this global concern tended to result in totalitarian, punitive but ultimately ineffective measures. The study is focused on mapping out the various ideas and sentiments of Filipinos regarding post pandemic scenarios and possibilities by tracing discourses of post-pandemic futures circulated via online content and platforms. Qualitative, discursive, and exploratory in approach, different data sets from different online platforms were gathered, initially analyzed for word salience, and finally thematically unpacked with attention to discourse. Mainly, the topics of “health,” “economy,” “governance,” and “people” formed the most prominent thematic threads resulting from the initial word frequency analysis. However, upon closer reading of the data sets, the study contends that imagining a healthier and more inclusive post-pandemic future for the country rests on the principles of integration, complexity, and revaluing of human life and welfare. Results of the study are hoped to inform policies and programs that aim to create a more just and robust future for Filipinos beyond the confines of the present pandemic.