(PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR FACEBOOK)
TACLOBAN CITY– Northern Samar is entering 2026 on the back of a year marked by strong governance, sustainable development, and people-centered programs, the Provincial Information Office reported.
In 2025, under the leadership of then-Governor Edwin Ongchuan and continued by Governor Harris Ongchuan, the province strengthened institutions, improved public services, and promoted initiatives that reached every Nortehanon.
These efforts earned Northern Samar recognition as the Seal of Good Local Governance Regional Champion by the Department of the Interior and Local Government, alongside 14 component municipalities.
The province also made strides in investment promotion and renewable energy.
Northern Samar received the Gawad Bayanihan sa Pamumuhunan Award, a Presidential Award, for effectively implementing “Green Lanes” through the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office. The policy accelerated investment opportunities while ensuring transparency and efficiency.
In a national first, the province institutionalized a Green Lane Policy for renewable energy, earning the National Champion award at the Sustainable Energy Awards 2025 from the Department of Energy. This was complemented by the enactment of the Corporate Social Responsibility Ordinance of 2025, linking development with tangible community benefits.
Fiscal discipline remained a priority, with the province recognized as the 2025 Seal of Local Public Financial Management Excellence Award winner—the only province in Eastern Visayas to receive the honor. Strong financial management across seven pillars reflected transparent budgeting, accountable spending, and active citizen engagement.
Northern Samar’s dedication to service excellence extended to employment and social programs. The Public Employment Service Office was named Best PESO in Region VIII, while the Provincial Population Office secured Second Place in the 2025 Rafael M. Salas Kaunlaran Pantao Award, highlighting evidence-based family and community programs.
Health services were likewise recognized, with the Northern Samar Provincial Hospital cited for green and safe health facilities, and the Provincial Health Office earning multiple awards for nutrition and health program implementation.
The province’s commitment to evidence-based governance was further validated through the 2025 CBMS Gawad Galing Lokal, where it received both the Outstanding LGU Award and the People’s Choice Award for effective use of community-level data.
Accountability in development was reinforced as Northern Samar was recognized as the Top Performing Provincial Project Monitoring Committee in Region VIII, alongside honors in financial management excellence and compliance.
Cultural and environmental milestones capped the year. The Biri Rock Formations were declared a National Geological Monument and recognized as one of the country’s Natural Wonders, ensuring the preservation of a site of exceptional scientific and natural value.
The Provincial Tourism Office also won grand winner for Best Practices in Community-Based Tourism, reflecting a model of sustainable tourism that benefits local communities while protecting the environment.
The Provincial Information Office noted that these achievements stem from steady leadership and a professional workforce committed to translating policies into progress.
As Northern Samar moves forward in 2026, these milestones serve as a foundation for continued good governance, inclusive growth, and responsive public service for every Nortehanon.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
