Cruelty Behind the Screens

The onset of technology has shattered world barriers and empowered users to socially
connect to anybody across the globe. A place where one can voice out his opinions and ideals to
the general public. It made our lives easier, yet much easier to ruin peoples lives without a
moment of hesitation.
Just like millions of people, 30 year-old Raymond Malinay turns to Facebook to freely
express himself and his thoughts. But what Malinay considers as a tool for expression and
entertainment, turned out to be the medium for his oppression. Almost 3 years ago, Raymond
was a victim of cyber bullying. An anonymous user posted an edited picture of Raymond
claiming that he is homosexual and is HIV positive. Though it is obviously a lie, millions still
believed it, ultimately changing his life.
Camarines Sur Representative, Rolando Andaya, Jr., stated that cyber bullying is an act of
cruelty committed using technology to defile ones character. In simple words, cyber bullying is
much like the traditional playground bullying. The only difference is that it has a wide scope of
witnesses. And the fact that cyber bullies can hide behind anonymous email addresses,
pseudonyms and private mobile numbers, strips his inhibitions and the constraints of
consequences.
Four years ago, cyber bullying does not get much attention and is under reported. But,
just because it remains unreported doesnt mean that it is not happening. The youth are aware
that cyber bullying is a serious issue. Aside from defamation, it causes emotional trauma,
depression and worse, suicide. Bullycide or bullying induced suicide, is common in western
countries. Though there is no record of suicide in the country, it does not mean that the idea
didnt cross the victims mind.
According to Google Trends, the fourth highest searching country worldwide for cyber
bullying is the Philippines, last 2013. This is due to the passing of the Cybercrime Prevention Act
of 2012, an all in effort to end cybercrime including cyber bullying in the Philippines. It just
means that people are more aware of cyber bullying and are trying to address the issue.
Though laws are established by our government to stop cyber bullying, one must
remember that it starts with ones self and at home. One must be responsible with what he posts
or sends and face its consequences. See yourself in the victims shoes. Would you still bully
others when you know how the receiving end of the stick feels like? Always remember to think
before you post, because it may just save lives.

Jaime Ysabel I. Alegre

Grade X-Ampere