With a magnitude 5.5 earthquake that shook Metro Manila and Batangas last January 20, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Batangas was quick to update their Facebook page “Opo, lumindol. Wait for updates,” which quickly caught the attention of social media users due to the post’s quirky approach and delivery.
The post garnered traction online with almost nineteen thousand laugh reactions from social media users. DOST Batangas eventually edited the same post, but never missing out on jesting back in some humorous tone as they end with #iykyk, meaning “If you know, you know.”
Social media users quickly hopped on the comicality of the post and some even speculated that the Facebook admin of the page was a Gen Z based on the message’s delivery and lingo.
However, just two days later after the post went viral, DOST Batangas released an official statement and an apology regarding the said online incident, stating that while the post was made to promptly inform the concerned citizens within the affected area, they also admitted that they used a “trending line” in appeal to the digital culture.
DOST Batangas also extended their apology to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, as the post may have not resonated well with communication protocols within the concerned agencies in times of disaster.
Following the release of the organization’s statement, social media users quickly turned to the comments section to show their support and understanding for DOST Batangas and its social media admin. Most of them agree that the post, if anything, was simultaneously an effective and efficient way of relaying information that is easily understood, especially by the masses.
They furthered that Science should be attainable for the general public and it need not be complicated especially in a time where information should be quick and easy to digest especially at the dawn of calamities.
After receiving warm and affirming messages, DOST Batangas replied in the comment section thread, “Thank you everyone, but let us spread love and support We will always try to bring out the best material. That’s a promise!”
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