The use of cellphones should be banned during class hours according to Senator Gatchalian
CELLPHONE BAN? – Senator Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian of the Philippines is proposing legislation to prohibit cellphone usage in all basic education institutions to enhance student focus and revive the practice of regular book reading. As the chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Gatchalian plans to introduce a bill that mandates the celebration of “National Reading Month” every November, encouraging a nationwide focus on reading.
During a news forum, Gatchalian highlighted a widespread issue affecting not only the Philippines but also other countries: students are excessively engrossed in their cellphones, even during classroom hours, often engaging with platforms like YouTube and TikTok instead of focusing on educational activities. To combat this, he suggests a ban on cellphone use by students within classrooms and throughout school hours. This restriction would only apply during class times, permitting gadget use after school.
Gatchalian’s concern extends to the excessive time children spend on social media, which is highly accessible and often distracts them from academic pursuits. His proposal aims to shift this focus back to reading, particularly through physical books.
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According to ABS-CBN News, the National Reading Month initiative would also involve activities to promote reading among children. Gatchalian proposed that children be encouraged to buy at least one book to read, with bookstores offering discounts to facilitate this process. This effort is supported by other legislators, including Senator Robin Padilla, who shared personal challenges related to encouraging his children to read physical books, noting the competition from digital devices.
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The call for a revitalized interest in reading is echoed by various stakeholders at the Philippine Book Festival, held at the World Trade Center near the Senate. The festival gathered 170 exhibitors and thousands of books, aiming to renew interest in Filipino literature and support local authors.
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Former Komisyon ng Wikang Filipino head, Dr. Virgilio Almario, criticized the current educational system’s approach to reading, which he believes has led to a reluctance among the youth to engage with books post-schooling. He emphasized the importance of literacy and the enriching experience of reading, which allows individuals to explore and understand the world, regardless of their financial status.