DepEd backs proposed ban on cell phones

The Department of Education (DepEd) has expressed support to a move of the Department of Justice (DOJ) to ban the use of mobile cellular phones in schools throughout the country, at least during school hours, as one of the measures to prevent campus gambling.

Education Undersecretary Chito Gascon said the proposal is "reasonable" given the problem that it seeks to address.

"Given the magnitude of the problem that the proposal seeks to address — it is a reasonable regulation that just needs to be balanced with student security needs," he said.

Justice Secretary Merceditas Gutierrez on Thursday said the proposal was among the items taken up during consultations with school officials and parents on the problem of illegal gambling in campuses, where cell phones are reportedly used as prime means of communication for betting and collection.

Sports gambling using the results of the National Basketball Association and the Philippine Basketball Association has reportedly reached alarming proportions in certain private schools.

Among the schools that are studying the proposed cell phone ban, which will be in effect from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., are De La Salle University, Ateneo de Manila University, University of Santo Tomas and San Beda College.

Gutierrez said they are also working with the schools to come up with a profile of student high-rollers.

Gascon said they will seriously study the move and lend their support when needed.

"We will study the proposal very seriously and consult with key stakeholders — particularly the school administrators and the parents to issue the mechanics for it," he added.