Digital Engagement: Use of Mobile Smart Phones and Social Engagement Among Low-Income Rural Families in a barangay in Ramon, Isabela, Philippines

Abstract

The study examined the relationship between digital access and social engagement among low-income rural community household heads in a barangay in Ramon, Isabela. Underpinned by the Digital Divide theory, the study used a survey design with 184 low-income rural family heads triangulated by Key Informant Interviews of two participants and Focus Group Discussions among 16 participants. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation. The survey respondents were predominantly middle-aged, male, high school graduates, and earning below ₱10,000 monthly from farming or informal labor. A rather counterintuitive finding is that despite belonging to low-income households, the participants demonstrated regular engagement with digital technologies. This is because they used free data services to obtain access to information online. Such a strategy highlights how economically disadvantaged individuals actively seek alternative means of maintaining digital connectivity. The KII and FGD showed that they frequently utilized digital resources for online communication, information retrieval, and access to online educational resources and livelihood opportunities. Further, digital access enhanced their social engagement at the personal, family, institution, and community levels. However, with the growing challenges of misinformation and cybersecurity risks, sustained efforts are needed to enhance digital literacy and cybersecurity awareness. Recommendations include a multi-sectoral approach to community-based digital literacy programs to ensure digital inclusion for personal and community development.