Ambidextr Media

Ask a hundred people if they’ve heard about last year’s Kathniel breakup and at least 99 of them will say yes, because in the vibrant tapestry of Philippine media, the allure of showbiz news has proven to be irresistible. I mean, after a day spent grappling with the anxieties of bills and responsibilities, is it really a crime to unwind by catching up on Heart Evangelista and her Fashion Week excursions?

While the distraction of celebrity drama offers a momentary reprieve, it often overshadows more pressing societal issues. Whose fault is this phenomenon, and what are the consequences for a society too enthralled by the glitz and glamour of showbiz news?

Blame, it seems, lies at the intersection of media priorities, audience preferences, and online culture. Media outlets, driven by the desire for higher ratings and increased circulation, prioritize sensational content over critical reporting. Gossip sells, and in a competitive landscape, the economic incentive to capture audience attention often trumps the responsibility to disseminate important news that affects the nation.

Audiences, on the other hand, display a penchant for showbiz news because celebrities have transcended mere entertainment; they have become cultural icons, especially in the Philippines. Not only a source of amusement, celebrities and their narratives have woven themselves into the fabric of shared cultural experiences, creating a sense of community among fanbases. We see this manifested in the massive support for actors-turned-vloggers like Alex Gonzaga and Bea Alonzo. We keep up not only with their on-screen characters, but also their careers and even their lives.

Yet, while these glittering distractions provide a semblance of community and entertainment, they often overshadow more critical issues. It is, after all, much easier to form opinions and engage in discussions about, let’s say, the longstanding Barretto family feud, than to delve into the complexities of traffic and public transportation problems, or the ramifications of increased agricultural importation.

The rise of cancel culture further fuels this phenomenon, as individuals shy away from serious discussions for fear of being wrong and virtually canceled. The consequences of this prioritization are profound, as vital information about political developments, social injustices, and economic challenges takes a backseat to the latest celebrity gossip.

When the public is left uninformed and disengaged from crucial issues, meaningful discussions are hindered and society becomes more focused on entertainment than its own well-being. To address this issue, media outlets must reevaluate their priorities and recognize their role as keepers of information. While entertainment news undeniably has its place, adopting a responsible and balanced approach to reporting is imperative. Journalists and media organizations should strive to provide a mix of content that caters to the public’s entertainment needs while ensuring that important news is not overlooked.

However, the responsibility does not rest solely on the shoulders of media outlets. Audiences, too, are tasked with the crucial role of researching and remaining aware of real news. While it isn’t a crime to seek the occasional escape from reality, it is still up to us to stay informed and contribute to the betterment of the world we inhabit. The glittering allure of showbiz news should not blind us to the pressing issues that demand our attention, discussion, and action.

The love affair between Filipinos and showbiz news is complex. It is not a one-sided fault but a collective responsibility to strike a balance between entertainment and critical awareness. Only by acknowledging the consequences of prioritizing celebrity gossip over societal issues can we hope to create a more informed, engaged, and responsible society.

Blog by Jana