TACLOBAN CITY — Northern Samar is pushing to expand its abaca industry beyond raw fiber production with plans to establish an industrial park in Silvino Lubos, aimed at boosting value-adding activities and generating more jobs for local communities.

The Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (PEDIPO) recently conducted a site inspection and consultations with local officials for the proposed Ibabao Abaca Industrial Park, part of ongoing efforts to identify a suitable location for the project.
The proposed site, covering about three to five hectares, was evaluated for its potential to host processing facilities and necessary support infrastructure.

Local tourism officials also joined the assessment, underscoring the importance of inter-agency collaboration in determining the project’s viability.

Authorities said the area’s accessibility and strategic location make it a strong candidate for abaca-based enterprises. Beyond processing, the site may also support farm tourism initiatives such as educational tours, product demonstrations, and cultural activities that could provide additional income streams for residents.

Silvino Lubos is known for its rich abaca resources, positioning it as a natural hub for downstream processing once the industrial park is established. Officials said the project is expected to enhance productivity, create employment opportunities, and stimulate sustainable economic growth in the municipality.

Northern Samar remains the top abaca producer in Eastern Visayas.

Based on data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, the province produced 6,766.16 metric tons of abaca fiber in 2025, accounting for nearly 65 percent of the region’s total output.

With over 12,000 hectares devoted to abaca farming, the crop continues to be a primary source of livelihood for thousands of farmers, while also supporting related sectors such as trading, processing, and transport.

Provincial officials said the proposed industrial park aligns with broader efforts to attract investments and promote sustainable enterprises under a bio-circular green economy framework, ensuring that economic growth goes hand in hand with environmental protection.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

TACLOBAN CITY — A new education report on the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has revealed persistent gaps in child development and learning, prompting Rep. Jude Acidre of Tingog party-list group to call for stronger coordination between national and regional institutions.

The findings were presented following the turnover of the Year 3 Final Report of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) to the Bangsamoro Parliament during the Philippine Congress–Bangsamoro Parliament Forum.

The report cited major challenges in early childhood development, nutrition, foundational learning, and teacher training across BARMM.

Data showed the region has the highest rates of childhood stunting (34.3%), anemia (16.9%), and food insecurity (48.2%). Functional literacy stands at 64.7%, with many young learners struggling to read.

Despite these concerns, the report noted that Grade 3 students in BARMM performed above the national average in mathematics, indicating areas of potential progress.
Acidre said the findings underscore the urgency of addressing education issues in BARMM, emphasizing that these concerns go beyond the region and require national attention and accountability.

Among the key recommendations are the passage of a Bangsamoro Teacher Education Reform Code, the creation of a 10-year roadmap for early childhood care, and enhanced coordination among agencies such as the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, and Professional Regulation Commission.

Lawmakers also agreed to establish a Technical Working Group to improve policy alignment and implementation between the national government and BARMM.

Rep. Acidre stressed that sustained collaboration among stakeholders will be crucial, describing the report as a step toward long-term education reform in the region.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

ORMOC CITY-The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office completes the construction of concrete road in Brgy. Anislag, Isabel, Leyte with a project cost of P19,207,799.61 funded under the General Appropriations Act 2025.

The project involved the construction of 1900 lane kilometers of concrete road with a width of 6.1 meters. It also included the construction of 55.90 linear meters of stone masonry slope protection to help stabilize the road section. This replaced the existing 4-meter-wide dilapidated road with a wider and more durable pavement which significantly improves road capacity and provides a safer and more convenient access for motorists in the rural residential area.

During its turnover ceremony held on March 24, 2026, Barangay Captain Dindo Noya shared his gratitude for the completed road, stating, “Amo kini ampingan nga project ug atimanon namo kini kay dako kaayo ni ug benepisyo sa mga katawhan namo diri sa Barangay Anislag.”

With its completion, mobility in Brgy. Anislag is expected to improve, supporting the transport of goods and agricultural products through a more reliable route and boosting the community’s overall socioeconomic activity. (PR)

Brgy. Burabud, Laoang, N. Samar – In support of the national goal of fostering a society where women have equal rights, power, and opportunities, the Department of Public works and Highways-Northern Samar Second District Engineering Office (DPWH- NSSDEO) proudly celebrated the National Women’s Month with the sub-theme, “Lead Like the Babaylans, Filipinas”.

The celebration served as a meaningful platform to recognize the achievements of women and to further promote awareness on women’s empowerment within the organization. Key officials graced the event, including District Engineer Atty. Arthur Eric L. Sabong, OIC-Assistant District Engineer Francisco Y. Tañala, Chief of the Administrative Section Ma. Amparo Mariam T. Dapug, Chief of Construction Section Fiona A. Anunciado along with other Unit Heads.

A significant highlight of the program was an informative discussion led by Chief of the Finance Section Ms. Michelle G. Suan and Ms. Hazel D. Balberan, Assistant Chief of the Finance Section. The speakers emphasized important laws that protect women’s rights, equipping participants with essential knowledge crucial to safeguarding their well-being and promoting gender sensitivity in the workplace.

The tokens included basic household necessities and wellness vouchers, encouraging women to prioritize self-care and personal well-being. The DPWH- NSSDEO remains steadfast in its commitment to championing gender equality and empowering women, recognizing their vital role in nation building and organizational success.

(Jinky A. Dela Cruz/PR)