TACLOBAN CITY — Northern Samar’s long-quiet archaeological landscape is set for a major revival as experts from the University of the Philippines Diliman prepare to begin extensive field studies across the province in April 2026.

The undertaking marks the first comprehensive archaeological investigation in the province in over 60 years, following the work of Franciscan historian Cantius J. Kobak in the 1960s, who documented early Spanish-era settlements and missions.

At least eight professional archaeologists are expected to conduct on-site assessments in historically significant areas. Among the priority sites is Catubig, once the cabecera of the Ibabao region during the Spanish period and a key site in the 1649–1650 Sumuroy Revolt and the 1900 Battle of Catubig.

In Mapanas, researchers will examine the Sang-at Burial site and a cave in Barangay Jubasan where a tooth believed to be from a prehistoric megalodon shark was reportedly found. Meanwhile, in Laoang, teams will survey Batag Island and the caves of Cahayagan, areas associated with early habitation and trade.

Renowned Filipino archaeologist Dr. Emil Charles Robles conducted initial coordination meetings and site visits from February 11 to 14 to outline the study’s framework with provincial and municipal officials.

Provincial leaders, under Governor Harris Ongchuan, have expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing heritage preservation, community participation, and the potential for cultural tourism and academic partnerships as the province reexamines its pre-colonial and colonial past.

(JOEY A. GABIETA/ROEL T. AMAZONA)

TACLOBAN CITY – Mayor Alfred Romualdez here has denied reports that a weakening local economy has forced several establishments in the downtown area to shut down in recent months.

In an interview with reporters on Thursday, Feb.19, Romualdez said city records show that around 900 new businesses began operations last year, while only more than 50 establishments ceased operations during the same period.

“We experience traffic congestion every day because our economy is growing. We did not have that 10 years ago or even five years ago,” the mayor said.

Snapshots of businesses that have closed since last year have circulated on social media, prompting concerns among netizens and some entrepreneurs, who attribute the closures to mounting economic and operational challenges.

Earlier, Eugene Tan, president of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Tacloban-Leyte chapter, said their group has observed a steady decline in business activity across the city.

Tan cited several contributing factors, including an economic slowdown, rising real property taxes and limited parking due to railings installed along major roads.

Romualdez, however, suggested that the criticism stems from the city government’s policy of opening the local market to large-scale investors.

“They want to monopolize the business, but we allowed the entry of big businesses to create jobs. Competition has also stabilized prices of goods in the city,” he said.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) appear to support the mayor’s claim of economic growth. In October 2025, the PSA reported that Tacloban’s economy expanded by 8.2 percent in 2024, surpassing the 6.8 percent recorded in 2023.

The PSA estimated the city’s Gross Domestic Product at PHP59.58 billion in 2024, up from P55.06 billion in 2023 and P51.54 billion in 2022, all measured at constant 2018 prices.

(SARWELL Q. MENIANO/PNA)

ORMOC CITY-The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office (DEO) held a bloodletting activity on Friday, March 14, 2025, at the DPWH compound with the theme: “Donate Blood, Save a Life”. The event was made possible through the help of the Philippine Red Cross Ormoc City Chapter.

A total of 86 individuals stepped forward to undergo screening. Ultimately, 20 donors were able to meet the health requirements and each donated a full blood bag containing 450 milliliters of blood. These donations will help replenish the local blood supply and provide much-needed assistance to those in need of transfusions.

Assistant District Engineer Peter Scheler V. Soco extended appreciation to the employees who participated, as well as the Red Cross team who played a role in the success of this event. “Every drop of blood donated can save a life. We appreciate everyone who stepped up to help,” ADE Soco said. (PR)