Joshua and Jeric pin their respective hopes for a better Philippines on the 2022 presidential bids of Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Leni Robredo. Amid the rise of online disinformation during the election season, the two friends share how their social media feeds are informing their votes – regardless of how credible their sources are.

Produced by EngageMedia, Hopes and Feeds navigates the issue of online disinformation and propaganda on social media through the eyes of two working-class Filipinos. It also shows how access to information and freedom of expression – fundamental digital rights – can be tainted by Big Tech and groups that seek to abuse these platforms. The film is now publicly available on Cinemata.

The 26-minute documentary follows two rural migrants working in a low-rise apartelle in Quezon City, Metro Manila. Joshua, 28, works as the administrative assistant of the building. Jeric, 26, is the all-around crew of a diner on its ground floor. Both come from peasant families, and with bleak opportunities in their home provinces, they took their chances in the Philippine capital. They first created their Facebook and TikTok accounts after being enticed by the selfies, scenic photos, and dance moves posted by new friends in the city.

These platforms have since become their primary source of news and information, especially during the 2022 Philippine national elections. Joshua’s and Jeric’s choices for president reflect not just the political leanings of their home regions, but more so what they see on their social media feeds.

Download the full Hopes and Feeds press kit

Interested to screen Hopes and Feeds?

EngageMedia is open to partner with organisations and collectives interested to screen the documentary. If you would like to screen and/or learn more about the film, contact EngageMedia Video Manager King Catoy.