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Advocates Philippines
Gatchalian Renews Push To Ban Smartphones In Schools Amid Rising Safety Concerns
Photo credit: Senate PH
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian is once again pushing for a ban on smartphones and other electronic devices in schools, saying the measure would not only help improve students' focus in class but also strengthen campus safety.
The renewed call comes as concerns over school-related violence continue to grow, including the recent suspension of face-to-face classes at a public school in Batangas following a shooting threat.
Gatchalian also pointed to a foiled school attack in Laguna in February, where seven students were allegedly recruited by foreign handlers through the online gaming platform Roblox. The incident, he said, highlights the need for stronger safeguards to protect students from online risks.
To address the issue, Gatchalian is urging the passage of the Electronic Gadget-Free Schools Act, or Senate Bill No. 627, which seeks to prohibit Kindergarten to Senior High School students in both public and private schools from using smartphones and other electronic devices during school hours.
Despite the proposed restriction, the measure provides several exemptions. Students may still use gadgets for teacher-approved educational activities, including classroom presentations and learning exercises. The bill also allows the use of mobile devices for students with specific medical conditions, as well as during emergencies or situations involving potential threats to safety.
According to Gatchalian, the proposal is not only about keeping students safe but also about ensuring they remain focused on their studies without unnecessary distractions.
The lawmaker has also been advocating for a separate measure that would restrict minors' access to social media, arguing that stronger protections are needed as schools face increasing challenges linked to online platforms and digital content.
The renewed call comes as concerns over school-related violence continue to grow, including the recent suspension of face-to-face classes at a public school in Batangas following a shooting threat.
Gatchalian also pointed to a foiled school attack in Laguna in February, where seven students were allegedly recruited by foreign handlers through the online gaming platform Roblox. The incident, he said, highlights the need for stronger safeguards to protect students from online risks.
To address the issue, Gatchalian is urging the passage of the Electronic Gadget-Free Schools Act, or Senate Bill No. 627, which seeks to prohibit Kindergarten to Senior High School students in both public and private schools from using smartphones and other electronic devices during school hours.
Despite the proposed restriction, the measure provides several exemptions. Students may still use gadgets for teacher-approved educational activities, including classroom presentations and learning exercises. The bill also allows the use of mobile devices for students with specific medical conditions, as well as during emergencies or situations involving potential threats to safety.
According to Gatchalian, the proposal is not only about keeping students safe but also about ensuring they remain focused on their studies without unnecessary distractions.
The lawmaker has also been advocating for a separate measure that would restrict minors' access to social media, arguing that stronger protections are needed as schools face increasing challenges linked to online platforms and digital content.
Jul 1, 2026
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