The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday, July 11, called on local government units (LGUs) across the country to maximize the use of their Special Education Fund (SEF) for high-impact school initiatives, especially in the areas of digital education and learner welfare.

“Siguraduhin natin na matalino nating nagagamit ang SEF dahil kailangan ng mas marami pang suporta para sa edukasyon (Let’s make sure we’re wisely using the SEF because education still needs more support),” said DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara.

“Unti-unti, nakikita natin yung effort ng ating LGUs—hindi lang para i-utilize ang pondo kundi para gamitin ito sa paghatid ng tunay na pagbabago sa ating mga mag-aaral (Bit by bit, we’re seeing the efforts of our LGUs—not just in utilizing the fund, but in using it to deliver real change to our students),” he added, noting President Marcos’s efforts to push for digital transformation and improved student well-being.

In Angeles City, Pampanga, DepEd noted that the local government’s ICT Modernization Program has made significant strides in enhancing digital learning.

At Governor Rafael Lazatin Integrated School, DepEd said two newly opened computer laboratories are now engaging students more effectively with modern tools and faster connectivity.

Each lab features 40 computers, fiber optic internet, smart TVs, printers, air conditioning, and ergonomic furniture—all funded through the SEF, DepEd said.

These mark the 16th ICT facilities established citywide to improve the student-to-computer ratio and promote 21st-century learning.

“With faster computers, reliable internet, and interactive learning platforms, we are now more engaged, collaborative, and confident in developing our digital literacy and critical thinking skills,” said Principal Ma. Luina Rivera.

The program has already benefited seven schools, including Angeles City National High School, Angeles City National Trade School, and Northville 15 Integrated School, among others.

In General Trias City, Cavite, DepEd noted that the LGU and the Schools Division Office (SDO) launched the “Every Day is Teachers’ Day” initiative in February 2025.

The health and wellness program provides free annual physical exams (APE) and offers discounts on medical consultations, laboratory tests, and emergency services for all teaching and non-teaching personnel.

The initiative not only supports teacher well-being but also reduces out-of-pocket health expenses, thereby enhancing job satisfaction and productivity.

Meanwhile, in Valenzuela City, DepEd noted that the program “Batang Valenzuelano, Batang MATAlinaw” is helping students at Marulas Central Elementary School through vision screening and free eyeglasses distribution.

The program aims to detect and address eye problems early, allowing learners to focus better and perform academically.

“The beneficiaries are more focused and tend to learn quicker,” said Principal Josie Fernando. “As a school head, it’s a huge help—not just for the initial number of learners’ learning performance but also for the school overall,” she added.

DepEd said it continues to emphasize the importance of transparent, needs-based, and community-responsive SEF allocation.

The department is also optimistic that more LGUs will adopt forward-thinking, learner-centered programs that drive educational transformation from the ground up.

“DepEd continues to encourage LGUs to make SEF use more responsive, transparent, and aligned with the needs of their communities, and hopes more LGUs will follow suit in driving transformative change at the local level,” the agency said.