Cebu Pacific prohibits use of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 on flights

Budget carrier Cebu Pacific on Sunday banned the use of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices during any of its flights for the mean time due to the phone model's "safety issues."

"In light of the recent recall of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices due to safety issues, Cebu Pacific (CEB) advises passengers that the usage and charging of the device are prohibited onboard all CEB and Cebgo flights beginning today, September 11, 2016, until further notice," it said in an advisory posted on its website.

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. earlier this month ordered the recall of all Galaxy Note 7 smartphones, as it was found to have "fire-prone" batteries.

Samsung has already sold some 2.5 million of the devices so far, and the manufacturer plans to replace not only phones with faulty batteries sold to the public, but also retailed inventories and units in transit.

"Galaxy Note 7 devices must also not be stowed in checked baggage, but may be hand-carried as long as the device is turned off at all times inside the aircraft," Cebu Pacific said.

"We sincerely hope for our passengers' full cooperation, as the safety of everyone onboard out flights remains our utmost priority," it added.

Ayala-led Globe Telecom Inc. last week also said it will replace faulty units which have already been sold to customers. —ALG, GMA News