Cebu — Starting June 29, 2026, the municipality of Dumanjug is implementing a strict "total ban" on mobile phones within all public school campuses. Mayor Efren Guntrano Gica announced this decisive policy on June 28, emphasizing that any device found on campus will be confiscated and held until the end of the school year. The initiative aims to shift the student focus away from constant screen interaction and toward meaningful engagement with classmates and traditional learning materials. While some parents have expressed concern over emergency connectivity, the local government has assured the public that communication remains seamless through designated school officials and established emergency networks.
Prioritizing Storytime Over Screentime
The policy is rooted in the belief that the current generation of students is losing the art of conversation due to the constant allure of digital distractions. By removing gadgets from the equation, school leaders hope to encourage children to pick up books, participate in group discussions, and build genuine friendships during recess and lunch breaks. The mayor argues that true character development is nurtured through face-to-face interaction, which is often stifled by the silent, glowing screens of smartphones. This cultural pivot is a direct challenge to the modern trend of digital reliance in classrooms.
Ensuring Safety Through Official Channels
Addressing concerns regarding emergency communication, the administration has clarified that teachers and school heads are fully permitted to carry phones for official school business. In the event of a real emergency, parents can contact school administration or local emergency response units, which are already integrated into the town’s rapid response system. This layer of oversight ensures that while students are disconnected from the internet, they remain connected to the support networks essential for their safety. The move places the responsibility of communication back in the hands of adults, protecting children from the risks of constant connectivity.
Cultivating Discipline and Integrity
This initiative is part of a broader vision for the youth of Dumanjug, who are being challenged to become models of focus, discipline, and traditional social values. By setting these strict boundaries, the municipality is signaling that local institutions are invested in shaping the students' daily habits rather than just their test scores. The mayor has firmly stated that this policy is non-negotiable, offering those who disagree the alternative of transferring to other municipalities. It is a bold, controversial, but highly intentional experiment in reclaiming the educational environment from the reach of the digital world.
