Follow us for updates
© 2022 reportr.world
Read the Story →

Why TikTok Ruled the World in 2020 (Philippines included)

Everyone wanted to be on TikTok.
by Arianne Merez
Dec 18, 2020
Photo/s: shutterstock
Shares

TikTok exploded in 2020 as quarantined Filipinos found an outlet for their creativity and later on, political views. The Chinese video-sharing has earned its spot beside Facebook, Instagram and Twitter on millions of smartphone home screens.

The app's endless scroll is a bottomless pit of cooking hacks, dance challenges, trivia and boys and girls looking for attention. For those on the frontlines like the World Health Organization, it became a pulpit for proper hand washing and social distancing.

"On TikTok, countless creators have used their talents and creativity for good, transforming the app into a positive space where people can come together for entertainment, enjoyment, and even learning," the app said.

Creators set their own limits on TikTok. Nothing seems off limits, adding to its appeal. As part of our 2020 Yearenders, we list down five reasons why TikTok ruled the world this year.

1. Everyone wanted to be on TikTok.

Continue reading below ↓

In 2020, everyone wanted to be on TikTok -- from the budding social media star to the World Health Organization -- it was the go-to app for millions who were forced to stay home due to COVID-19 lockdowns as they were glued on their mobile phone screens.

In the Philippines, the Department of Health maximized the influence of TikTok with videos of proper handwashing as well as reminders of COVID-19 precautionary measures.

Even government officials such as Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles and Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque joined the TikTok craze with their own dance videos.

2. It sets trends.

TikTok/Facebook
Continue reading below ↓
Recommended Videos

TikTok was 2020's biggest trendsetter -- so much so that the fads spill over to Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

ALSO READ:

Viral TikTok Celebrating 'Ratatouille' Becomes Virtual Musical

TikTok's New Happy Dance: Aegis' 'Christmas Bonus'

From dance challenges such as #binibiningmarikit, and #Itreallyhurts to creative  #wipeitdown videos--Tiktok dictated the pace on what's the latest cool trend on social media.

This Christmas for instance, Filipinos on TikTok danced to ATMs to the tune of Aegis' hit 'Christmas Bonus.' 

According to TikTok, these 10 hashtags made it to the top of the 2020 trending list:

3. TikTok gave Gen Zs a voice.

Instagram/yourlologab
Continue reading below ↓

The year 2020 was a defining year for Gen Z, who saw how with older generations in charge, things weren't looking so well.

At the crossroads between being young and adults, fun-loving and "woke" Gen Zs like Gab Campos used TikTok to find their voice in the crowded world of social media.

ALSO READ:

TikTok is the Voice of Gen Z, Take It From Gab Campos and His 'Sampayan'

Thanks TikTok, Gen Z Now Knows the Joys of Fleetwood Mac

4. TikTok became a platform for social issues.

Continue reading below ↓

While Facebook and Twitter are no longer new to political content and social commentary, it’s only during the pandemic that Tiktok saw the rise of social and political commentary.

Filipino content creator Dora Dorado, known as Doracrybaby, said the pandemic and the political developments or lack thereof that came along with it pushed social media personalities like him to mix politics and entertainment in TikTok.

ALSO READ:

Why is TikTok Mixing Fun and Politics? We Asked Doracrybaby

5. It's a platform for entertainment and information.

IKTOK/inkamagnaye
Continue reading below ↓

TikTok is an accidental news platform, something which the Chinese-made app is now embracing. This year, users of the app harnessed TikTok's potential to be both informative and entertaining.

More than dance challenges and food hacks, TikTok also supported initiatives worldwide to help raise awareness on the COVID-19 pandemic.

ALSO READ:

No Hate, TikTok Is Banning These Types of Content

Filipino Mythology Goes to TikTok, Thanks to Inka Magnaye

TikTok Gets Fact-Checking Partner in Philippines

Latest Headlines
Read Next
Recent News
President cites 'substantial fiscal risks'.
With the reopening of several local destinations, this app has never been more timely.
A busy end of 2022 for the concert scene.
The Marcos children made sure his memory was there.
It comes with great responsibility.
It wants to become a 'super-app' for messaging instead. Here's how.
The news. So what? Subscribe to the newsletter that explains what the news means for you.
The email address you entered is invalid.
Thank you for signing up to On Three, reportr's weekly newsletter delivered to your mailbox three times a week. Only the latest, most useful and most insightful reads.
By signing up to reportr.world newsletter, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.