Eastern Samar leads Eastern Visayas with 8.1 percent economic growth

Eastern Samar has reported the highest economic growth in Eastern Visayas, with an 8.1 percent increase last year, surpassing the region's average of 6.38 percent, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. The province's economic output reached P36.72 billion. The growth is attributed to strong performance in the services sector, particularly in transportation, construction, and mining. Other provinces, such as Southern Leyte and Biliran, also showed growth but at lower rates. Governor Ben Evardone emphasized the need to sustain this growth to benefit all residents, especially in remote areas. He outlined plans to enhance education, health, and job creation, and noted a significant drop in poverty from 40.9 percent in 2018 to 24.7 percent in 2023.