TACLOBAN CITY — A proposed measure seeking to elevate a long-standing fisheries school in Eastern Samar into a full-fledged polytechnic institute has moved closer to approval after gaining the endorsement of a House panel.

The House Committee on Higher and Technical Education has approved for plenary deliberation House Bill No. 6785, which aims to convert the Matarinao School of Fisheries (MASOF) into the Eastern Samar Polytechnic Institute of Fisheries and Technology (ESPIFT).

The bill was authored by Eastern Samar Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales, in partnership with 4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino Libanan, both of whom pushed for the expansion of higher education opportunities in the province.

Gonzales welcomed the committee’s approval, describing it as a major step toward enhancing fisheries education and maximizing the province’s rich marine resources.
“The establishment of ESPIFT will empower our people with advanced skills and modern knowledge in fisheries, aquaculture, and marine sciences. This is a crucial step toward creating sustainable livelihoods and uplifting coastal and rural communities in Eastern Samar,” he said.

Founded in 1967, MASOF has served as a key training institution for technical skills in fisheries. It is located in Barangay Matarinao in the municipality of Salcedo, Eastern Samar.
Under the proposed measure, the school will be upgraded into a polytechnic institute that can offer a broader range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as technical and short-term courses in fisheries, aquaculture, marine sciences, engineering, and technology.

The envisioned ESPIFT will also function as a center for research and innovation in sustainable fisheries and marine development, while strengthening partnerships with industry stakeholders.

Gonzales emphasized that the initiative seeks to align education with the economic needs of coastal communities that rely heavily on marine resources.

“By investing in education that is directly tied to our natural strengths, we are opening more opportunities for our people and ensuring long-term, inclusive growth,” he added.
The bill also mandates coordination among key government agencies such as the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to ensure effective implementation.

Gonzales expressed optimism that the measure will be approved at the plenary level, citing its potential to expand access to quality education and drive sustainable development in Eastern Samar.

The lawmaker has been actively pushing for improved access to state-supported higher education, including proposals to establish a College of Maritime Studies at the Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) in Guiuan, and to upgrade ESSU extension campuses in Balangiga and Arteche.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

Catarman N. Samar- To conclude the month-long celebration for women, a culminating program was conducted by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Northern Samar 1st District Engineering Office March 31, 2025 at the district lobby.
The culminating ceremony started with a prayer followed by a welcome remark delivered by one of the empowered women at the office, the chief of finance section Ms. Maureen S. Sabayo.

In her message, she recognized the vital role of women in infra implementation.
“Behind every successful project, behind every audited report, and behind every well-run office, there are dedicated women-our engineers, our administrative staff, and yes, even us in accounting making it all happen”, she stated.

“We are proof that women can excel in any field”, Ms. Sabayo concluded.

Highlighting the program is the “Know Your Rights” episode, wherein an equally empowered women of the district, Administrative Officer II (HRMO I), Atty. Angelica Dosmanos-Irinco, shared insights and legal awareness of Republic Act 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act (“Bawal ang Bastos” Law) which prohibits gender-based sexual harassment in public spaces, online, workplace, and educational institutions.

She also discussed some practical examples of situations covered by the law, tackled reporting mechanisms available to victims, and encouraged employees to actively uphold a culture of respect and accountability in the workplace.

District Engineer Alvin A. Ignacio shared that this annual activity also underscores the vital role of male allies in dismantling systemic barriers and building a truly inclusive society.
A Commitment signing was also conducted as part of the activity, where women affixed their signatures to support this year’s campaign.

Zumba session wrapped up this year’s activity promoting health and wellness among participants.

(ANALIZA A. PABIA/PR)

Brgy. Burabud, Laoang, Northern Samar– The Department of Public Works and Highways Northern Samar Second District Engineering Office (DPWH-NSSDEO) has successfully completed the construction of a vital road project connecting the barangays of Lawaan, Tarusan, and Bongliw in Laoang, Northern Samar, significantly improving accessibility and mobility in the area.

Implemented under the FY 2025 Regular Infrastructure Program, the project involves the concreting of a 1,280 meters roadway with a thickness of 0.23 meters and a width of 5 meters. It also includes the construction of road shoulders on both sides, grouted riprap slope protection structures, and the installation of four lines of reinforced concrete pipes to ensure durability and proper drainage.

This newly completed road is expected to bring significant benefits to local communities, including improved transportation, easier access to essential services, enhanced safety, and increased economic opportunities for residents and local business.

The DPWH remains committed to delivering quality infrastructure projects that support regional development and improve the quality of life for the people of Northern Samar. (PR)