RESTRICTION. Department of Education (DepEd) Tacloban schools’ division information officer Nilo Elder speaking to reporters during an interview on Tuesday (May 19, 2025). The DepEd field office has urged public school teachers to localize the implementation of the new policy that regulates the use of mobile phones in classrooms. (Photo courtesy of Jonathan Moraleta)
TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Education (DepEd) field office here has urged public school teachers to localize the implementation of the new policy that regulates the use of mobile phones in classrooms.
Nilo Elder, DepEd Tacloban division information officer, said in an interview on Tuesday that several teachers have been regulating the use of mobile phones in classrooms, but it is only this year that this measure is backed by a directive.
Eder said schools are also authorized to localize the implementation of the policy depending on their needs.
“Possible practices include enforcing a no-cellphone-in-class rule, setting up gadget collection boxes during exams, teacher-controlled device use, designated gadget-use areas or schedules, parent acknowledgment forms, and digital responsibility orientations,” Eder told reporters.
The DepEd field office here will conduct an orientation on this policy for teachers, parents and learners ahead of the start of the new school year in the second week of June.
Restricting the use of mobile phones in campuses is part of DepEd Order No. 006, s. 2026, a reform measure aimed at strengthening learner focus, discipline and safety inside schools.
Under the order, the use of cellphones and other portable electronic devices during instructional time will be prohibited or strictly regulated, except when needed for academic activities or emergencies.
“The policy does not impose a total ban on gadgets in schools but instead regulates their use to ensure devices serve educational and legitimate purposes,” Eder said.
The measure, according to the official, seeks to minimize classroom distractions, cyberbullying, academic dishonesty and other learner safety concerns while fostering a more focused learning environment. (PNA)