CATARMAN, Northern Samar– Northern Samar is a province known for its natural beauty, while also being vulnerable to natural calamities.

Taking into consideration several factors, the provincial government, under Governor Edwin Ongchuan, has embraced a forward-thinking approach to investments focusing on sustainability and long-term growth.

While many regions in the country are driven by the promise of immediate economic gains through industries like mining and large-scale commercial ventures, Northern Samar has charted a different course—one that balances economic development with environmental preservation and social equity.

Northern Samar has opted for a green economy over industries like mining, which may offer short-term economic benefits but lead to environmental harm. Mining and similar projects can damage resources, exacerbate natural calamities, and offer only temporary benefits to the local economy.

Instead, the province is investing in eco-friendly sectors like renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-tourism, which are more sustainable in the long run.
A key feature of Northern Samar’s investment approach is its emphasis on community-based enterprises.

Unlike traditional investments, where large corporations benefit while locals receive low wages, these enterprises enable our fellow Ibabaonons to be stakeholders and major earners in the business. This model promotes local ownership and equitable wealth distribution, ensuring that the community thrives alongside the industry.

To prevent harmful investments, the Provincial Government, through PEDIPO, carefully support projects to ensure they align with sustainability goals.

Though some projects may promise immediate economic growth, they often come at the cost of environmental degradation and unequitable progress. By prioritizing sustainable investments, we are building a more resilient and prosperous future.
(THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR)

BORONGAN CITY– The Department of Public Works and Highways Eastern Samar District Engineering Office (DPWH ESDEO) provided assistance to the victims of Typhoon Kristine, leading a charitable initiative driven by its dedicated employees.

DPWH ESDEO has sent cash and in-kind donations to the victims of Typhoon Kristine this November 2024.

Through the efforts of the Rank and File Employees Association (RAFEA), the organization successfully collected a total of Php 34,310.00, along with boxes filled with used clothing and food packs for those impacted by the disaster.

DPWH ESDEO District Engineer Domcelio Natividad expressed his strong support for the donation drive, emphasizing that these activities align with the nationwide initiative of the DPWH to provide relief to typhoon victims.

“This is our way of giving back, as we understand the feelings of being victims of typhoons, having experienced challenges during Typhoon Yolanda and Typhoon Ruby,” said DE Natividad, highlighting the importance of helping one another in times of crisis.

Meanwhile, the DPWH ESDEO Employees Union is organizing another donation drive to assist the victims of Typhoon Pepito.

The Eastern Samar District Engineering Office has previously conducted similar aid efforts to support communities affected by natural disasters.

“This initiative not only demonstrates the compassionate spirit of the DPWH employees but also highlights the principle of solidarity in overcoming adversity,” said DE Natividad.(PR)

TACLOBAN CITY – Tingog party-list Representative Jude Acidre raised concerns over alleged irregularities in the notarization of documents for confidential fund liquidations by the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd).

During a House committee hearing on good government and public accountability, Atty. Rochelle Abella admitted to notarizing certifications without the personal appearance of affiants, including Vice President Sara Duterte, a direct violation of the 2004 Rules on Notarial Practice.

Acidre emphasized that such violations render notarizations invalid.

The congressman also questioned Atty. Abella’s jurisdiction, as her notarial commission is registered in Manila, while the documents involved were for offices in Mandaluyong and Pasig. “This is clearly outside the jurisdiction of your notarial commission,” Acidre pointed out.

Acidre noted discrepancies in the personal appearance of affiants and raised concerns over potential favoritism.

He questioned why Atty. Abella consistently handled notarizations for confidential fund documents, describing the process as “pro forma” and potentially intended to mask irregularities.

The inquiry revealed that certifications for OVP’s confidential fund liquidations from December 2022 and parts of 2023 were notarized under questionable circumstances.
Acidre also flagged a potential conflict of interest, as Atty. Abella, while contracted by the OVP, also notarized DepEd documents, where Vice President Duterte was a common signatory.

The congressman called for stricter adherence to notarial laws and a deeper investigation into the liquidation of confidential funds, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in public service.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

TACLOBAN CITY – Borongan City’s famed Baybay Beach is set to host the first leg of the 10th ICTSI Philippine Kiteboarding Tour from November 29 to December 1, marking the city’s debut in this high-energy water sports event.

Organized by the Philippine Kiteboarding Association (PKA), the competition features three disciplines, namely, twin-tip racing, freestyle, and foil racing—and showcases top athletes, including Asian champion Yo Narapichit Pudla, Estonian champion Triina Trei, and Irish duo Warren and Stefan Vance.

They will compete alongside local talents from Boracay, Cebu, and Manila.

“This aligns with our sports tourism campaign, positioning Borongan as a hub for diverse sports activities,” said Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda, inviting visitors to experience the city’s scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and hospitality.

Sponsored by ICTSI, the event underscores Borongan’s growing reputation as a sports tourism destination, known for its consistent winds, world-class waves, and pristine beaches.

Kiteboarding, one of the fastest-growing water sports globally, combines athletic skill with environmental sustainability, making it an exciting addition to Borongan’s adventure tourism offerings.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)