Schools in the municipality of Dumanjug, Cebu began enforcing a total ban on cell phones on Monday, June 29, following an order from Mayor Efren Guntrano “Gungun” Gica.

Under the policy, students found bringing cell phones to school will have their devices confiscated and returned only at the end of the academic year. The measure was introduced following the deadly school shooting in Tacloban City last week.

In a Facebook post addressed to school heads, Gica said the ban would be implemented without exception, adding that parents who disagree with the policy may choose to transfer their children to another municipality.

The mayor said the policy aims to help students focus on reading, studying, and interacting with classmates instead of spending time on gadgets. He also called on parents to support the initiative by closely engaging with their children and monitoring their education at home.

Gica assured parents that the local government would continue to ensure the safety of students despite the restriction. He also met with school heads on Monday to discuss the implementation of the policy and announced plans to gradually provide school buses for students.