Senator Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian proposes legislation banning cellphone use in basic educational institutions. This aims to limit digital distractions, allowing students to focus on their studies.
“Isa sa mga observation, hindi lang dito sa atin ha, pati sa ibang bansa, na marami sa ating mga bata talagang nalululong na sa paggamit ng cellphone even sa loob ng classroom,” said Gatchalian.
(One of the observations, not just here in our country, but also in other countries, is that many of our children are becoming addicted to using cellphones even inside the classroom.)
“Dapat nagbabasa sila pero nanonood ng YouTube, nanonood ng TikTok. Pinag-aaralan ko ngayon yung i-ban na yung sa mga bata lang, yung paggamit ng cellphone sa loob ng classroom at sa loob ng school hours,” he adds.
(They should be reading, but instead, they are watching YouTube, watching TikTok. I am currently studying the possibility of banning the use of cellphones in the classroom and during school hours for children only.)
Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Basic Education, is taking a two-pronged approach. While the cellphone ban targets students during school hours, a separate initiative proposes to establish a “National Reading Month” every November.
The cellphone ban applies specifically to basic education, allowing students to use their devices only after school.
Proponents of the bill believe reducing screen time will improve students’ attention spans and enhance their cognitive abilities, fostering better learning and creativity.
Source: 1, 2
Image credit: Unsplash
