DepEd bans cellphone use during class hours

CEBU, Philippines – As classes are about to start in many private elementary and high schools tomorrow, the Department of Education reiterated its prohibition on cellular phone use during class hours.

The ban is so that students will remain focused on their studies and learning distractions will be minimized.

The prohibition applies to elementary and secondary schools nationwide whether public or private.

DepEd had already issued three orders, namely: Numbers 83, series of 2003; 26 series of 2000 and 70 series of 1999, which imposes a ban on the use of cellular phones by students during class hours.

DepEd assistant secretary Teresita Inciong said that they understand the importance of cellular phones in our daily activities, but still they have to set some rules on how to use them especially inside the classroom.

The DepEd official, however, said there is no instruction for the teachers or security guards to confiscate or surrender to them the students’ cellular phones.

Inciong explained students can turn off their cellular phones during class hours and switch them back on after class.

The DepEd official also enjoins the cooperation of parents in observing the cell phone ban during class hours.

“We know the importance of cellphones in times of emergency or in knowing the whereabouts of our kids, that is why the prohibition is only for a limited time,” Inciong said in a press statement sent to The FREEMAN.

The DepEd Order also stated that teachers and parents should devise ways to educate students on the responsible use of cellular phones to prevent them from engaging in misguided and improper activities. — Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/BRP (THE FREEMAN)