Northern Samar’s investment policies get Malacañang citation

INQUIRER FILES

TACLOBAN CITY – Northern Samar has solidified its reputation as a prime investment hub after receiving a presidential recognition for its pioneering One-Stop Action Center for Strategic Investments—the first local government “green lane” for strategic investments in the country.

This recognition, conferred at the “Gawad Bayanihan sa Pamumuhunan” awarding ceremony in Malacañang Palace on March 13, underscores Northern Samar’s growing prominence as an investor-friendly province.

Alongside Laguna, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, Ilocos Norte, and the City of General Trias, Northern Samar was honored for its commitment to streamlining business processes and fostering an environment conducive to economic growth.

Jhon Allen Berbon, head of the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO), emphasized that the recognition serves as a strong endorsement of Northern Samar’s readiness for large-scale investments.

“This award is important because it is a testament that Northern Samar is investment-ready. Our policies are in place, and the provincial government is fully committed to supporting investors,” he said on Tuesday.

With this latest national recognition, Northern Samar strengthens its appeal as a top-tier investment destination, paving the way for greater economic opportunities, job creation, and sustainable development, he added.

Gov. Edwin Ongchuan credited the province’s investment success to the strategic collaboration between provincial government departments and local governments which has created a seamless investment ecosystem.

“While the PEDIPO team has been instrumental in securing two presidential recognitions, this achievement is truly the result of the collective effort of the entire provincial government and all local governments. It is our unity and interdependence that give Northern Samar its unique advantage as a premier investment destination, particularly in renewable energy,” Ongchuan said in a statement.

The province’s efforts in investment promotion have already yielded impressive results.

In 2024, Northern Samar was also recognized for establishing PEDIPO and launching the Winvest Northern Samar campaign, initiatives that have successfully attracted and facilitated over P150 billion in investments, particularly in the energy sector involving renewable energy.

This milestone has captured the attention of international financial institutions, including the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, which are now studying Northern Samar’s best practices for possible replication in other local governments across the country.