THE DEPARTMENT of Education (DepEd) XI discouraged teachers from using TikTok during working hours, especially when in uniform.
Jenielito Atillo, DepEd XI spokesperson, reiterated this during the AFP-PNP Press Corps on Wednesday, March 27.
“Kung mag Tiktok mo sa eskwelahan unya naka uniporme mo, bisan pag break time, people will think you are doing that during work hours, kung mag Tiktok ka ayaw sa eskwelahan,” Atillo said.
The reminder was issued after a teacher scolding her students on TikTok went viral. The vice president and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte said no penalty would be imposed but advised her to check her emotions.
Atillosympathetized with teachers’ experiences inside the classroom surrounded by students from diverse backgrounds, which can often be difficult to deal with.
“Mura kag nag-open og floodgate nga ni-swamped tanan sa imoha ikaw ra usa, private person pod ka kay naa kay imong problema, and then you just convert yourself into a public servant ‘cause you are a teacher,” he said.
“In the part of the teacher being a human being, dili pud lalim iyang responsibilidad,” he added. However, he said the mistake was that it was broadcast live, and the messages uttered were below the belt.
The official advised teachers to utilize the time for work properly and not to film videos, especially with provocative elements as it sends a “not very good message” to students.
He said he would look into legal measures and possible violations that the teachers may face. However, he clarified the act “is not actually appropriate.”
The official added they will implement disciplinary measures for teachers when necessary, under the gravity of the offense made.
