This was bound to happen but I get ahead of myself. In recent years there has been a rise and interest of monetizing and commercializing blogs and bloggers. Monetizing blogs can come in many forms endorsement, paid posts, putting and advertising. Of course it is not limited to that, with the dawn of other forms of social media platforms - like Twitter and Facebook - where in a sense you have seen the entry of direct marketers. It was probably a matter of time before the Powers-that-be or the Government took notice.
And the rise of commercialized blogs and direct marketers online have started and continued an ongoing dabate on what is proper and what is not. Having seen and experienced the different sides of this world, I think it is valid to say that anyone has a right to earn a living. However, It is also valid that as a blogger or even as social media citizen you are responsible to your followers and readers ie you are ultimately will be judged by them.
The other day I read this post by Janette Toral: Individuals, Bloggers, Businesses need a DTI Sales Promotion Permit even if there is no purchase required
and again I think this is the natural consequences of the use of not only blogs but the whole gamut of social media for marketing. And some questions and points have to be said and clarified.
First, Not everyone in social media is in it for the purpose of business. Not all blogs seek to earn money and nor is it their sole aim. Again, I would like to point out again that it is not wrong to earn money. Ii is a choice.
About Blogs: In particular, Blogs are digital diaries, digital pamphlets, digital newsletters, online tv and radio stations and are online representatives of businesses and persons. Often time one person acts as writer, photographer, videographer, editor and publisher - but this is a matter and statement of function not for bragging - why anyone would brag that I cannot understand. And I think there is a need for the policy to be stated to be specific and not to use the all-catch phrase bloggers.
Second, It is but expected that if you earn from something then you must pay taxes for it. This of course depends on the total income. And in fact bloggers who participated in campaigns do pay taxes - withholding taxes. Although, a sad fact is that not all of them are paid on time.
Third, In terms of online promotions and contests would it be the blogger or the agency and business doing it that will be applying for a DTI permit. Specially since the blogs act as publishing platforms. If you notice nationwide contests and raffles have DTI permits but these are permits shouldered by the business or the agency handling them not the newspapers or media outfits handling this.
Fourth, What should be the minimum value of the prize of an online contest for it to be considered needing a DTI permit.
Fifth, In my opinion, These latest developments actually point out the practicality of a business having their own blog - from which the said contests and promotions could start from. Again, in my opinion it practically solves the problem on who will apply for the permit.
Sixth, This my lead to the conception of cooperatives or even business corporations of bloggers and individual who earn from online efforts. Mainly due to the fees and expenses in securing a business permit and to incorporate a business. It has to be remember that a single proprietorship and partnerships while easy to set-up also attached the whole assets of the individual or individuals to the business. In fact this is probably a welcome development. The more organizations the better ie you get a more wider view and range of opinion.
The talk of the DTI regarding online promotion actually opens the need for a public hearing open to all parties concerned in the very near future and at time and place where all can be adequately represented. i do not think this is the first nor will it be the last.
Please just remember before policy statements are issued the business of blogging is not wholly business.