TACLOBAN CITY – The provincial government of Northern Samar has provided P1.12 million in financial and livelihood assistance to 28 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) currently housed at Balay Darangpan, a halfway house established to support their reintegration into society.
Each beneficiary, who returned to the fold of the law, received P40,000 under the Local Social Integration Program, which includes financial aid, livelihood training, firearm remuneration, and other social services.
This marks the 8th batch of former rebels assisted through Balay Darangpan, which is located in Catarman, since its inception.
Vice Governor Clarence Dato led the distribution of assistance, joined by members of the Provincial Task Force Balik Loob (PTF-BL), including representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Army, the Provincial Legal Office, and faith-based organizations.
The provincial government aims to foster lasting peace and stability in Northern Samar by helping former rebels transition to civilian life and become productive members of their communities. (ROEL T. AMAZONA)
ORMOC CITY-A female drug personality who is listed as a high-valued individual in the PNP drug watchlist was apprehended by operatives led by the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit of Southern Leyte Police Office and the Station Drug Enforcement Team of the local police during a buy-bust operation at about 5:18 pm on February 10, in Brgy. Talisay, Bontoc, Southern Leyte.
The suspect, said to be ranked number 6 in the regional priority target list, was identified as alias “Malyn,” 53, single, businesswoman and a resident of Brgy. Talisay, said town.
Recovered from her possession was one sachet containing a white crystalline substance suspected to be shabu procured by an operative for P500.
During the conduct of a body search done in the presence of law-mandated witnesses, the searching cop recovered another one more sachet containing the same white crystalline substances also suspected to be shabu, and cash amounting to P4,197.00 in different denominations, and one P500 bill which is the buy-bust money used in the operation.
The suspect was informed of the nature of her arrest and was apprised of her constitutional right through the Miranda Doctrine in a language he understood and spoke.
Charges of Violations of Secs. 5 (selling illegal drugs) & 11 (possessing illegal drugs) of Art. II of RA 9165, the Comprehensive Law against Illegal Drugs of 2002 was already filed at the Provincial Prosecutors Office against the suspect who is temporarily detained at the locked-up cell Bontoc MPS. (ROBERT DEJON)
EASTERN SAMAR SEAT OF POWER – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has recognized Eastern Samar as one of the country’s fastest-growing provinces. Governor Ben Evardone attributes this economic progress to his administration’s comprehensive anti-poverty programs. The photo shows the new provincial capitol building, a landmark project under Gov. Evardone’s leadership. (I LOVE BORONGAN)
Among provinces with fast growth
EASTERN SAMAR SEAT OF POWER – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has recognized Eastern Samar as one of the country’s fastest-growing provinces. Governor Ben Evardone attributes this economic progress to his administration’s comprehensive anti-poverty programs. The photo shows the new provincial capitol building, a landmark project under Gov. Evardone’s leadership. (I LOVE BORONGAN)
TACLOBAN CITY – Eastern Samar’s inclusion among the country’s fastest-growing provinces is largely attributed to the various anti-poverty programs implemented by the provincial government, Governor Ben Evardone said.
As he prepares to step down from office on June 30, Evardone expressed hope that the incoming administration would sustain these initiatives to further address poverty in the province.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on February 4 that Eastern Samar recorded an 8.1 percent economic growth in 2023, making it one of the top 10 fastest-growing provinces in the country.
It was the only province in Eastern Visayas to make the list, which was topped by Batanes with a 14.5 percent growth rate.
“This means that our anti-poverty programs, particularly in infrastructure and social services, are already taking roots,” Evardone said in a Viber interview on Thursday, February 13.
The governor cited improvements in logistics and transportation as key contributors to the province’s economic growth.
“The movement of goods, especially agricultural and fishery products, has become more efficient. This has led to higher incomes for our farmers and fisherfolk while reducing the cost of products,” he explained.
Evardone also highlighted the expansion of social services, particularly in health and education, as a factor in improving household incomes. These programs, he said, have helped lift Eastern Samar out of its long-standing status as one of the country’s poorest provinces.
The province’s poverty incidence has also seen a significant decline, dropping from 40 percent in 2018 to 24 percent in 2023, he added.
With his tenure ending after the May 12 midterm elections, Evardone stressed the need for continuity in development efforts. “I hope the next administration will sustain our initiatives to maintain this momentum,” he said.
Evardone opted not to seek a third term in the upcoming elections.
Instead, his son, incumbent provincial board member Ralph Vincent Evardone, is running for governor. He will face off against Quinapondan Mayor Rafael Asebias in the race for the province’s top post.
NSSDEO, Brgy. Burabud, Laoang, Northern Samar — Key officials and personnel of the Department of Public Works and Highways – Northern Samar Second District Engineering Office (DPWH – NSSDEO) started the new year with vibrant colors and cultural pride as they donned traditional Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-inspired attire during the Department’s first flag-raising ceremony of 2025.
The event, led by District Engineer Sabong and Assistant District Engineer Tanala, highlighted the rich cultural heritage of Southeast Asia through the diverse and colorful outfits. The initiative was in compliance with the latest Civil Service Commission (CSC) Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 16, s. 2024, which introduced a revised dress code for government officials and employees.
Under the Memorandum, employees are required to wear ASEAN-inspired attire every first Monday of the month, while Filipiniana-inspired clothing is prescribed for the remaining Mondays. The directive aims to promote cultural appreciation and unity among government workers while showcasing regional identities.
The flag ceremony not only marked the start of the year but also reflected the commitment of the DPWH team to uphold government mandates while celebrating diversity and tradition.(PR)
CATARMAN, Northern Samar– A mark of its continued commitment to sustainable peace, the Provincial Government released immediate and livelihood assistance worth P1.12 million to 28 peacebuilders Monday, February 10, at the provincial capitol.
The recipients are currently enrolled in Balay Darangpan, the 8th batch since this half-way home for peacebuilders started operations.
Each received immediate assistance and livelihood assistance amounting to P40,000 funded under the Local Social Integration Program of the provincial government (LSIP).
Leading the distribution of assistance was Vice Governor Clarence Dato representing the provincial government, attended by other members and representatives of the Provincial Task Force Balik Loob (PTF-BL).
The LSIP is a continuing initiative of the provincial government to help former rebels reintegrate with the community by offering financial aid, literacy and livelihood training, firearm remuneration, and other social services, hoping to achieve overall peace and stability among communities in Northern Samar by redirecting and leading new lives.
Also present in the distribution were DILG NSPO Program Manager, Eduardo Diaz; PLTCol Antonio Montanio of NSPPO; CPL Noriel L. Rebangcos from 803rd BDE; 1st Lt. Kenneth Mark Juan from 20th IB; PLO representative, Atty. Janil Jay Equiza; and Pastor Peter Paul Reynaldo, Founder of Sinag ng Hilaga.
SAMAR ISLAND DEVELOPMENT – The three governors of Samar Island have joined forces to improve the living conditions of their constituents by committing to the construction of roads and bridges that will connect the provinces of Samar, Eastern Samar, and Northern Samar. This initiative is expected to drive economic development and help address the island’s insurgency problem. Photo shows Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan and Northern Samar Governor Edwin Ongchuan during their meeting on Tuesday, November 11, in Calbayog City. Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone sent a representative.
(story on page 2) (THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR)
Thru roads and bridges connectivity
SAMAR ISLAND DEVELOPMENT – The three governors of Samar Island have joined forces to improve the living conditions of their constituents by committing to the construction of roads and bridges that will connect the provinces of Samar, Eastern Samar, and Northern Samar. This initiative is expected to drive economic development and help address the island’s insurgency problem. Photo shows Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan and Northern Samar Governor Edwin Ongchuan during their meeting on Tuesday, November 11, in Calbayog City. Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone sent a representative. (story on page 2) (THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR)
TACLOBAN CITY – The three governors of Samar Island are pushing for the construction of roads and bridges that would link the entire island in an effort to address its two fundamental challenges: poverty and insurgency.
On Tuesday, February 11, Governors Edwin Ongchuan of Northern Samar, Sharee Ann Tan of Samar, and Ben Evardone of Eastern Samar, through a representative, met in Calbayog City, Samar to discuss key infrastructure projects that could connect their respective provinces.
This initiative highlights their collective effort to fast-track Samar’s development through enhanced connectivity and economic growth.
Governor Tan emphasized that the meeting was an opportunity to align with development partners and discuss the challenges of securing funds and addressing insurgency.
“We are considering the amount or the funding needed, but there is also another dimension, which is the insurgency problem that the military has pointed out,” she said.
Governor Ongchuan stressed that, given the multi-billion peso cost of these projects, provincial governments alone cannot shoulder the burden, making national government support crucial.
“While we have made significant strides in infrastructure development—including roads, bridges, and essential public amenities—there is still a pressing need for further support. A comprehensive and efficient road network is crucial for propelling Northern Samar, and the entire Samar Island, toward a future marked by lasting peace,” Ongchuan stated.
In the past two years, Northern Samar has invested over P850 million in various infrastructure projects, including roads and bridges, to boost connectivity and economic activity, he said.
Jhon Allen Berbon, head of the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office of Northern Samar, expressed optimism about the initiative, citing its wide-ranging impact on the entire Samar Island.
“The interconnection of the three provinces will pave the way for economic development, improve the delivery of basic services, and, most importantly, help eradicate the insurgency problem,” he said.
The three Samar provinces continue to struggle with insurgency, a major factor deterring potential investors.
Additionally, these provinces are among the least developed in the country, with poverty incidences of 35.8% in Samar, 35.6% in Eastern Samar, and 27.5% in Northern Samar, based on the 2023 report from the Philippine Statistics Authority.
Berbon also stressed the need for full support from all congressmen representing Samar Island, as well as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., to secure funding for these infrastructure projects.
“The three governors are optimistic that with their endorsement, the backing of all congressmen, and the support of the President, these projects will receive funding,” he added.
They hope that allocations for these infrastructures will be included in next year’s national budget.
Among the priority projects discussed were the completion of critical routes such as the E. Duran to Macatingog (Bobon) Road in Northern Samar and the Silvino Lubos-Matuguinao Road in Samar.
The nearly completed Catumsan-Jipapad-Las Navas-Catubig-Rawis Road, also known as the Las Navas (Northern Samar)-Jipapad Road in Eastern Samar, is currently 72% complete.
Meanwhile, ongoing efforts to complete the Silvino Lubos (Northern Samar)-Matuguinao Road (Samar) aim not only to curb insurgent movements but also to open essential trade routes.
These roads are particularly vital for connecting remote communities across Samar’s provinces, improving access to healthcare, education, and other basic services, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for Samarnons.
The Silvino Lubos-Matuguinao Road, extending 18 kilometers with plans for four new bridges, is estimated to cost P3.2 billion.
Furthermore, the development of the E. Duran to Macatingog (Bobon) Road, with an estimated budget of P350 million, promises a more direct link between Bobon in Northern Samar and adjacent areas like Calbayog City in Samar, aiding in efforts to combat insurgency.
Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone, who was represented at the meeting by his provincial planning development officer Joselito Abrugar, reiterated the province’s full support for the initiative, emphasizing its role in addressing poverty and achieving long-term peace and stability in Samar.
