PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur – Effective immediately, public and private elementary pupils and secondary school students in Western Mindanao have been prohibited by the Region 9 office here of the Department of Education (DepEd 9) from entering Internet cafés, computer shops, shopping malls and similar entertainment places during class hours, it was learned here recently.

Dr. Walter O. Albos, DepEd 9 director, issued the prohibition to the field following reports from concerned teachers and school administrators that some school children in urban and semi-urban communities, tend to skip classes just to play computer games or gallivant in air-conditioned business establishments.

Albos explained that escaping from classes for any purpose will adversely affect the academic advancement and social growth of elementary and high school students and should be immediately corrected.

The DepEd 9 chief admonished teachers and school administrators to closely monitor the out-of-school campus activities of their students so that the youngsters will not go wayward.

He said it is the obligation and responsibility of educators to keep their students intact in the classroom during class hours or around the campus during their vacant periods.

According to Albos, teachers would be directly blamed by parents if something bad happens to their sons or daughters when outside the classrooms or campus during class hours.

Albos reminded the educators of DepEd Order No. 86, Series of 2010, issued recently which directs all school personnel to institute and implement necessary measures on the school discipline applicable under the situation.