Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong urged education officials to base any decisions restricting students from using their cellphone in schools on scientific research, expert recommendations and existing Department of Education regulations.
Magalong, during last Monday’s flag ceremony said policies affecting students must be guided by educators and child psychology experts who thoroughly understand children’s emotional and behavioral development.
The mayor stressed the issue requires careful evaluation before authorities impose stricter rules on bringing mobile devices to campuses and cited studies showing a direct correlation between problematic cellphone use and physical aggression among children, noting that excessive screen time may contribute to behavioral issues and addiction.
“Although there is already a study na talagang there is a direct correlation between physical aggression and the problematic use of cell phones. Meron yan, meron talaga yung study. Pero yung pagdadala sa school, siguro pag-aralan nilang mabuti,” Magalong said.
Magalong pointed out that the DepEd already has an existing order regulating the use of cellphones in schools, particularly during class hours with penalties for violations, such as the temporary confiscation of devices.
Despite concerns over excessive screen time, the mayor acknowledged that mobile phones provide vital communication channels during emergencies and added students can use their phones to immediately report incidents or contact emergency responders, including 911, when necessary.
“May downside and upside. Paano kung may nangyari? Tapos mabuti na lang yung isang bata meron siyang cellphone. Nakapag-report siya. Matatawag siya sa 911,” Magalong said.
Because of the advantages and disadvantages of mobile technology, Magalong said school authorities must carefully weigh the issue using available data, scientific studies and expert opinion before finalizing any policy adjustments. Jerome Jacy Cruz | UC Intern
