The Department of Education-Davao Region (DepEd-Davao) will implement stricter regulations on the use of mobile electronic devices during instructional hours, following new guidelines designed to enhance the teaching and learning environment.
New Policy on Mobile Devices
Jenielito “Dodong” Atillo, spokesperson for DepEd-Davao, announced that DepEd Order No. 6, Series of 2026, prohibits the use of mobile electronic devices such as cellphones during instructional blocks inside classrooms. The order was issued on March 24 as part of efforts to create a safe, focused, and motivating learning atmosphere.
“When we say inside the classroom, we refer to the period when the teaching-learning process is ongoing or during the instructional block,” Atillo said during the Davao Peace and Security Press Forum on Wednesday at the Royal Mandaya Hotel.
Coverage and Penalties
The policy applies not only to students but also to teachers and non-teaching personnel. Anyone found using electronic devices during instructional hours may face administrative disciplinary action, emphasizing the need for undivided attention during classes.
For students, the policy adopts a progressive disciplinary approach:
- First offense: The device is temporarily confiscated and returned at the end of the class period. Teachers document the incident using confiscation slips provided by the department.
- Second offense: The device is confiscated until the end of class hours, and a notice is issued to parents or guardians.
- Third and succeeding offenses: The confiscated device is turned over to the principal’s office. Parents or guardians must personally claim the gadget, and the student may face additional disciplinary action.
Atillo clarified that DepEd does not support punitive measures that could negatively affect students’ emotional and psychological well-being. “The disciplinary action should remain healthy and corrective,” he said.
Implementation Details
Schools will not collect all mobile devices before classes begin. Students and teachers may still bring their phones to school, but they cannot use them during instructional hours. Devices may be used outside class periods.
Schools are expected to orient learners, parents, and guardians about the policy before the opening of classes. Atillo also encouraged parents to help manage and monitor their children’s gadget use.
School Year 2026-2027 will start on June 8, 2026, and end on April 8, 2027.
