Zamboanga City launches ‘gadget-free dining’ advocacy

The local government of Zamboanga City launched on Monday its ‘No Phone Initiative,’ an advocacy to be implemented in restaurants and all dining establishments during weekends throughout November. INQUIRER FILES

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur — The local government of Zamboanga City launched on Monday its ‘No Phone Initiative,’ an advocacy to be implemented in restaurants and all dining establishments during weekends throughout November.

The initiative is part of the celebration of the National Children’s Month through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to encourage family bonding and to uphold the welfare of children.

In an announcement, the Zamboanga City local government explained that the advocacy strongly encourages all patrons and diners to refrain from using mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and similar electronic gadgets while dining within the premises of participating establishments from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the following dates: Nov. 8, Nov. 9, Nov. 15, Nov. 16, Nov. 22, Nov. 23, Nov. 29 and Nov. 30.

Employees and staff of these establishments were also reminded to limit the use of their gadgets during work hours, except for official or emergency purposes.

Restaurants, coffee shops, quick food restaurants, food courts and canteens, hotels, resorts, and inn dining areas were all included in the initiative.

READ: 8 in 10 Pinoys back ban on cell phones in schools

Establishments were also encouraged to identify designated “gadget-free zones” or “family conservation areas” to promote awareness and compliance, while also adopting slogans such as “Unplug to Connect,” “Talk More, Scroll Less,” or “Disconnect to Reconnect” to reinforce the message.

However, gadgets may be utilized for cashless transactions, digital menus, or ordering when required and inevitable, as well as for emergency communication, medical monitoring, or formal work coordination./coa