Northern samar: The provincial government of Northern Samar is pushing for a provincewide policy that would regulate the use of cellular phones and other electronic devices in elementary and secondary schools during instructional hours to promote a safer and more focused learning environment.
According to Philippines News Agency, the proposed measure, dubbed the "Provincial Learner Focus and Digital Wellness Ordinance of 2026," was the subject of a joint public hearing conducted on Monday by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan's (Provincial Board's) committees on education and on laws, justice, human rights, and public accountability. Principally authored by Board Member Don Abalon, chair of the Committee on Laws, Justice, Human Rights and Public Accountability, the ordinance seeks to establish a local framework supporting the Department of Education's (DepEd) policies on minimizing classroom distractions caused by the unregulated use of mobile devices.
'Under the ordinance, learners are generally not allowed to use their mobile phones during class hours, except during medical necessities, emergencies, or for academic purposes when the teacher expressly requires the use of mobile devices for their classroom activities,' a statement of the provincial government on Tuesday read. If enacted, the ordinance will reinforce the implementation of DepEd Order 6, series of 2026, in public elementary and secondary schools while making compliance mandatory for private schools across Northern Samar.
During the public hearing, Board Member Ara Gillamac-Layug, who presided over the proceedings, said the proposed ordinance aims to protect learners from risks associated with unrestricted gadget use, including cyberbullying, digital misconduct, academic dishonesty, and exposure to inappropriate online content during school hours. The proposed measure also takes into account studies linking excessive and unregulated mobile phone use to declining academic performance among students.
School heads, administrators, and teachers from both public and private schools expressed support for the proposal during the public consultation, citing the need for clear policies that safeguard the welfare of both learners and educators. Participants also recommended provisions that would encourage parents and communities to help monitor compliance, saying that education is a shared responsibility among schools, families, and the broader community. Gillamac-Layug welcomed the recommendations and assured stakeholders that their comments would be considered in refining the proposed ordinance before its approval.
