WHILE everyone has the liberty to air their own sentiments online, it is still necessary to be mindful of what you say publicly — especially when it's directed to another person.
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- From depression to action: Kaisaya turns harassment issue into esports advocacy
Like other public figures, athletes can often be on the receiving end of criticism, bashing, and objectification. There are hundreds and thousands of eyes watching every move they make, all of which adds to the pressure they're already feeling as athletes.
In the digital age, staying out of social media is often out of the question. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are vital for them to connect with their fans and advance their own careers.
Coming from a family of athletes, Dani Ravena, Ateneo Lady Eagles libero admitted that ever since they could remember, their entire lives have been lived mostly in the open.
Her dad Bong is a former PBA star, while mom Mozzy was a decorated volleyball player in her youth. Meanwhile, Manong Kiefer, and kuya Thirdy, of course, are currently in their primes as professional basketball players.
For years, they've gotten used to receiving unwanted critiques from the public. But just a few days ago, the youngest Ravena could no longer contain herself, and decided to hit back at some netizens that made distasteful comments about her brother Kiefer.
“I do get it, our life as a family is such an open book. Both good things and bad things about us are out there,” she told SPIN Life. “While we fully understand that there would be criticisms every move we do, I draw the line talaga. ‘Pag about sa laro, sa performance, okay, you can’t please everyone, I get it. But when it’s below the below? We can’t keep quiet about it.
Growing up in the culture of the digital generation, Dani can quickly clap back at these netizens just as easily as they can leave a comment.
“I just give people a dose of their own medicine so they know what it feels like to be attacked online by someone who doesn’t even know your daily struggles,” she added.
While in this instance, she embodied a combative attitude worthy of a Gen Z keyboard warrior, the 20-year-old assured that they do not let these unnecessary comments get to them. In fact, when it’s their season, they often choose to detox from social media to avoid distractions.
Even so, she leaves a warning for people who bash athletes.
“It’s nice to get criticized about your sport, but you can’t just blabber and say hateful stuff and get away with it. Especially at times like these where people are more vulnerable because of the pandemic,” she said.
By law, netizens can be held liable for what they comment online if a certain athlete decides to file a case against them.
When SPIN Life sought the expertise of sports lawyer and Spin.ph columnist Mickey Ingles, he said: “Yes, there are [laws]. You can use the Cybercrime Prevention Act in relation to the offenses in the Revised Pencal Code to make people liable for nasty comments online.”
READ:
- Courts should be a safe space: Sexist slurs, harassment punishable under 'Bawal Bastos' law
- From depression to action: Kaisaya turns harassment issue into esports advocacy
He continued: “It’ll depend what the comments are or how it was said to know the exact crime to charge the person with. That’ll determine what crime was committed (libel, or unjust vexation, or threats, all done online), but a lot of factors have to be considered also."
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