The Department of Education (DepEd) 7 clarified that there is no directive completely banning the bringing and use of cellphones by students, contrary to widespread assumptions.
DepEd issues Department Order clarifying policy
DepEd issued Department Order (DO) No. 006, Series of 2026, on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, clarifying the department's policy. According to DepEd 7 Director Arturo Bayocot, DO 006 is based on the Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment (ESMLE) framework, which only prohibits elementary and secondary students from using mobile phones during class hours, unless the device is used for learning or other school-authorized purposes.
The order comes in the wake of a school shooting incident in Tacloban City, which prompted the department to prioritize safety and security in every school. DepEd has also hired additional security personnel and purchased metal detectors to prevent similar incidents.
No total ban, but local initiatives praised
“It’s not just about mitigating because the schools should have preventive measures and we should follow them. We’re doing so much of that because of what happened,” Bayocot said.
He also praised the initiative of Dumanjug Mayor Efren “Gungun” Gica, who is pushing for a policy banning students from bringing cellphones to school. “It’s a good idea to think that there should no longer be cellphones. I know that the mayor’s objective is really to ensure safety and security,” Bayocot added.
However, he clarified that provinces and local governments are allowed to implement measures appropriate to their situation, provided these align with DO No. 006.
Cellphones as learning tools
Bayocot emphasized the significant role of cellphones in learning, as they are used to search for information, access online learning materials, and participate in discussions via the internet. He noted that current learning methods also require internet connectivity, making cellphones an important educational tool.
He also explained that a total ban on cellphones could hinder communication between parents and their children, especially in emergencies.
