The Department of Education (DepEd) on Wednesday reminded all students, parents, and school personnel of its existing ban on students’ use of personal devices during classes.

Under DepEd Order No. 006, Series of 2016, or the Guidelines on Ensuring Safe and Motivating Learning Environment (ESMLE), gadgets are only permitted for educational purposes or in cases of emergency.

According to a memorandum dated June 30, the ESMLE “expressly prohibits the use of portable electronic devices during instructional hours by both learners and personnel. However, exemptions are granted in meritorious cases, specifically for academic purposes and emergency situations.”

“This includes the prohibition of the usage of, but not limited to, social media, online games, content creation, and vlogging during class hours,” DepEd wrote.

DepEd encourages schools to boost their information and advocacy campaigns to ensure proper adherence to policies and the safe and responsible usage of the internet and gadgets.

On Monday, Mayor Gungun Gica announced that all schools in Dumanjug, Cebu, will prohibit students from bringing phones to class. Students who are caught using their phones will have their devices confiscated, to be returned only at the end of the school year.