What is Jejemon?

Here in the Philippines, the term jejemon has been gaining popularity. What is a jejemon? Well, have you encountered someone in your social networking website who posts their statuses or messages in a hard-to-read but seemingly familiar language? For example, "HaAaOowWw aRrReuUuU?" You'd probably guess that it means "How are you?" and you're right. However, it's probably pretty difficult to figure out the first time you see it. This is how someone that is called jejemon writes or expresses him/herself.

Where did the term come from? Based on what I have seen in some of the posts in my own social networking pages, the expression "hehehe!" which is to laugh was modified to "jejeje!" And I think, the "mon" part is similar to the animation Pokemon. Why so? It's probably because the number of Pokemons gets bigger and bigger faster. Oh and they also express themselves by wearing clothes that are elaborate and recognizable. It's sort of a cross between Emo and Hip-Hop based on what I've seen.

In the past few days, jejemon has been featured in different news programs here in the Philippines. I've even seen it featured on a variety show (Mel and Joey) in a debate between pro and anti-jejemon (called jejebusters). Their points were good but, just my opinion, not strong enough to convince the majority.

Come to think of it, there are a few strong points either way. It's only a matter of expression and in a democratic country, everybody is entitled to his/her own opinion and how he/she expresses feelings. I think it's perfectly ok only if it does not go overboard. The main problem about this self-expression is when kids start to use them at school and their everyday life.

It's true, based on 24 Oras (Philippine GMA 7 new program), that some have been affected by this way of expressing oneself. The kids are having problems spelling words correctly and thus, are having hard time learning at school.

I guess the most important thing to consider here is communication. In my opinion, if you're talking with someone using the same expression, that would be ok since you'll understand each other fairly well. But if you're talking with someone else who doesn't understand what you are saying, I strongly suggest that you write or express normally. It's fine that you express yourself but do not force others to follow what you are doing and express the same way as you do.

So, for those who are considered jejemons, be considerate. Not all of us can understand you. As for the others, instead of discriminating them, just support them but be responsible enough to assist and remind them if needed. Our communication skills seem to be declining, let's try not to contribute to it.