The hyperreal closet: Identity formation and commodification in the Philippine Alter X spaces

Nikky S. Garo, Mc Jasper P. Regucera, King Heartlee J. Villareal, Gulliver Eric C. Alawas, Nicole Louise Z. Dyquiangco & Sean Benedict C. Villamor

Volume 6 Issue 2, June 2026

Abstract

This study provides an examination of Alter X (Twitter Alter) as a hyperreal digital realm using Jean Baudrillard’s concept of hyperreality, Judith Butler’s notion of performativity, and Critical Theory as its theoretical framework. This study unveils that Alter X provides a space for a persistent production of performed and commodified identity, intimacy, desire among Filipino youth that shows features of hyperreality from Baudrillard’s philosophy. Filipino youth are driven to initiate with numerical measurable validation, recognition, and visibility which makes identity inconstant caused by this system. This system that appears to be an empowering and fulfilling experience elucidates through Butler’s theory of performativity to reveal that it is still a manifestation of system that is entangled with heteronormative hierarchies, algorithmic incentives, and audience expectation. Critical theory serves as a framework to further present capitalism within digital spaces is a driving force leading to commodification of bodies and identity. While the space offers relative freedom for usually marginal identities, the production of identities within it serves to reinforce, rather than challenge, heteronormativity. Using Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), it further argues that this occurs within an economy of simulation, in which reputation and likes function as currency, and identity itself becomes the commodity being bought and sold. On these grounds, the paper recommends policy measures to curb harmful participatory practices, algorithmic control, and to provide protection for the most vulnerable users whom the app’s logic most easily exploits.

Keywords

Author information & Contribution

Nikky S. Garo. Corresponding author. Associate Professor, Department of Philosophy, Saint Louis University, Baguio City, Philippines. Email: nsgaro@slu.edu.ph

Mc Jasper P. Regucera. Master of Arts in Philosophy. Graduate Student, School of Advanced Studies, Saint Louis University, Baguio City, Philippines. Email: 2255350@slu.edu.ph

King Heartlee J. Villareal. Master of Arts in Philosophy. Graduate Student, School of Advanced Studies, Saint Louis University, Baguio City, Philippines. Email: 2221403@slu.edu.ph

Gulliver Eric C. Alawas. Faculty, Department of Philosophy, Saint Louis University, Baguio City, Philippines. Email: gecalawas@slu.edu.ph

Nicole Louise Z. Dyquiangco. Undergraduate Student of Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Saint Louis University, Baguio City, Philippines.

Sean Benedict C. Villamor. Undergraduate Student of Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Saint Louis University, Baguio City, Philippines.

"The research project was primarily conceptualized by Author 1, who developed the title, methodology, and theoretical framework. Author 1 also provided substantial contributions to the findings and discussion, organized the research team, and guided the entire research process. Author 2 contributed heavily to the findings and discussion and was responsible for drafting portions of the introduction. Author 3 assisted in the formatting of the manuscript, identified the research gap, and prepared the conclusion and recommendations. Author 4 offered consultation for clarification, ensured the accuracy of the content, and provided overall guidance throughout the manuscript development. Authors 5 and 6 contributed significantly to the review of related literature, ensuring that the study was firmly grounded in existing scholarship. Collectively, these contributions reflect a collaborative effort that strengthened the research across all stages of its development."

Disclosure statement

Funding

Institutional Review Board Statement

Data and Materials Availability

AI Declaration

Notes

Acknowledgement

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Cite this article:

Garo, N.S., Regucera, M.J.P., Villareal, K.H.J., Alawas, G.E.C., Dyquiangco, N.L.Z. & Villamor, S.B.C. (2026). The hyperreal closet: Identity formation and commodification in the Philippine Alter X spaces. International Review of Social Sciences Research, 6(2), 187-203. https://doi.org/10.53378/irssr.353350