When something happens in the world, it happens on Twitter. And sometimes it goes the other way around: a trending hashtag sparking conversations all over the world.
Exactly 13 years ago, on August 23, 2007, Twitter user Chris Messina Tweeted a suggestion to use the # symbol to group conversations on the platform. Today, this symbol plays a huge role in helping and amplifying important conversations that have shaped or changed cultures.
In the Philippines, hashtags help Filipinos raise their voice and improve their experience on the platform. They also allow us to know what’s hot and happening.
Hashtags show the power of communities
Whether it is about entertainment, current issues, or online movements, using hashtags help Twitter users easily find the information they are looking for. It also allows them to connect and interact with communities from different parts of the world.
Perfect example would be the boy band SB19 (@SB19Official), who continues to make waves both on Twitter and the OPM scene thanks to A’TIN who fervently shows their support in every project and activity of the group such as the recent Twitter Q&A session and occasional menpas (mention parties) on the platform. In fact, four out of 10 top hashtags in the Philippines from January to July this year were about them, and #SB19 sat on the throne as the top hashtag above them all.
They provide information
Be it a grand event like the first-ever full livestream of #MYXAwards2020, an artwork challenge like #SigawDarna, or a simple Tweet about hobbies or #quaranthings; there’s always a hashtag that can help users discover new information and invite them to share their thoughts on the platform.
They provide a way to stay informed
Hashtags provide quick links to the latest information about everything that’s important, from news and updates to sentiments of other users. For instance, pandemic-related hashtags such as #coronavirus, #StayHome, and #SafeHands help users get real-time updates and information about the pandemic.