Every day, students spend hours scrolling through Facebook, TikTok, Messenger, and YouTube. While social media helps us connect and learn, it also brings stress, distraction, and anxiety, especially among young students who are still building healthy habits.

Studies in the Philippines have shown that heavy social media use can lead to higher stress levels and lower academic performance. Many students admit they struggle to focus on their studies or feel anxious when they’re constantly online.

This petition calls on the Department of Education (DepEd) and schools nationwide to take small but meaningful steps to promote healthier online habits among students.

We are asking for the following actions:

• Encourage “5-minute social media pauses” during study sessions to help students refocus and breathe.

• Create short “phone-free” blocks in classrooms to improve focus and reduce stress.

• Organize school workshops about mental health and balanced screen time.

• Support parents and teachers with simple tips to guide responsible gadget use at home and in school.

Together, we can help Filipino students enjoy the benefits of social media without sacrificing their mental health or productivity.