Province marks it’s 34th anniversary
(Yhen Estrada)
TACLOBAN CITY — Biliran Governor Rogelio Espina on Monday, May 11, vowed to further accelerate development efforts and improve the quality of life of Biliranons as he highlighted the province’s significant gains in poverty reduction and economic progress during his State of the Provincial Address (SOPA).
Speaking during the 34th founding anniversary of Biliran held at the Provincial Capitol Civic Center in Naval, Gov. Espina reported that the province has made notable strides in reducing poverty and improving its economic standing.
Biliran, composed of the capital town of Naval and seven municipalities with a population of more than 180,000, was previously among the country’s 20 poorest provinces. However, Espina said the province has since recorded a significant decline in poverty incidence.
“From 19.9 percent in 2021, our poverty incidence dropped to 8.5 percent in 2023,” he said, noting that the figure is now lower than the national average of 10.9 percent.
He also cited Biliran’s upgraded income classification from a fourth-class to a second-class province, as recognized by the Department of Finance, as proof of sustained economic improvement.
“Nakakasiguro ako na lahat ng pamilyang Biliranon ay maiaangat ang kalidad ng kanilang pamumuhay,” Espina said, adding however that the provincial government will not “relax” its efforts and will continue strengthening unity and cooperation to sustain development.
The governor attributed these gains to the collaboration of the eight local government units, national government support, and the implementation of key provincial programs over the years, including initiatives during the previous administration of his son, former governor Gerard Espina Jr.
Among the programs cited were scholarship grants for students from low-income families, nutrition and health interventions, agricultural support such as free fertilizers, and the establishment of a learning center for farmers and vegetable growers to promote climate-resilient farming practices.
Espina also highlighted improvements in the Biliran Provincial Hospital, including additional medical personnel and dialysis machines, as well as the establishment of “Balay Biliranon,” a halfway house in Tacloban City for patients’ relatives seeking accommodation while their loved ones are confined at the Eastern Visayas Medical Center.
He added that the province has produced 10 doctors under its scholarship program, most of whom are now serving at the provincial hospital.
Youth development and mental health programs were also emphasized, with Espina noting rising concerns over mental health issues among young people in the province.
“We are also focusing on the youth through leadership programs and mental health camps in barangays,” he said.
The governor also acknowledged the support of Biliran’s congressional representative, Rep. Gerardo “Gerryboy” Espina, for helping fund hospital improvements and other provincial projects, as well as assistance from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and national government agencies.
Last year, Biliran was declared as insurgency-free seen to have boosted investor confidence and strengthened its position as an emerging tourism destination in Eastern Visayas.
JOEY A. GABIETA
