The Department of Education (DepEd) urged local government units (LGUs) today to help private schools in their areas fighting for survival amid the COVID-19 pandemic. DepEd Undersecretary for Finance Annalyn Sevilla during the “Handang Isip, Handa Bukas” virtual press briefing enjoined LGUs to assist private schools that might need help in order to sustain their operations. “We urge them to help or provide assistance to private schools but it’s up to LGUs to determine how it can be done, whatever will be legally and fiscally viable for them,” Sevilla said. Sevilla cited the efforts of Pasig City -- led by its Mayor Vico Sotto -- which waived all regulatory fees for private schools until in-person classes resume. However, she noted that this decision is “up to the LGUs” since they have different circumstances. “That is their prerogative and discretion,” she added. LGU officials cited their initiatives to help private schools. On behalf of Sarangani Gov. Steve Chiongbian Solon, Board Member Jess Bascuna, chairman of the Committee on Education, said that they have extended “technical support” for private schools to sustain their operations since “we are limited in using our funds.” Mayor Dan Masinsin of Pililia, Rizal noted that their public schools absorbed the students who transferred from private schools. “There are many students who transferred to public schools from private schools and we tend to their needs,” he said. The LGU is also accommodating some private schools based on their requests for assistance. Aside from accommodating at least 2,500 transferees from private schools to public schools, San Fernando City Mayor Edwin Santiago said that the LGU is also extending technical assistance to private schools. “Currently, classes in 14 private schools are ongoing and we also gave them copies of the modules so there will be uniformity for students in both public and private schools,” he said. Education Secretary Leonor Briones thanked LGUs for extending help to private schools. “While they might be limited since their Special Education Fund (SEF) can only be used for public schools, many of them still find ways to assist the private schools,” she said.