Among provinces with fast growth
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.
JOEY A. GABIETA
