The Provincial Government of Northern Samar

03/07/2025

𝐑𝐞𝐩. 𝐄𝐝𝐰𝐢𝐧 𝐎𝐧𝐠𝐜𝐡𝐮𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐌𝐢𝐜𝐫𝐨 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐍𝐨. 𝟔𝟎𝟏

Representative Edwin C. Ongchuan of Northern Samar’s Second District has introduced House Bill No. 601 on June 30, 2025, titled the “MBE Green Lane Act of 2025.” This proposed legislation seeks to address long standing bureaucratic challenges that continue to hinder the growth of micro business enterprises or MBEs, a sector that makes up more than 90 percent of all registered businesses in the country.

These small businesses reflect the resilience and creativity of Filipinos and serve as critical engines for inclusive economic development, especially in the provinces. Despite their significance, MBEs often face serious obstacles when accessing support services or fulfilling regulatory requirements. Lengthy procedures, multiple layers of approval, and complicated forms create delays that discourage many from registering formally or expanding their operations.

To directly address these concerns, House Bill No. 601 proposes the establishment of MBE Green Lanes within national government agencies and government-owned and controlled corporations. These Green Lanes will offer specialized and expedited service channels to streamline the processing of permits, registrations, and other compliance documents for MBEs.

The MBE Green Lane Act is a transformative measure that directly supports small business owners by reducing red tape and increasing government responsiveness. This is especially relevant for regions like Northern Samar, where micro enterprises serve as the foundation of the local economy.

Representative Ongchuan, an advocate for grassroots economic empowerment, emphasized that this measure seeks to bring government closer to the people. This is more than a policy reform. It is a message to every small entrepreneur in the country that their work matters, and their dreams are worth supporting.

03/07/2025

HAPPENING NOW || Ongoing Passport on Wheels Program in Northern Samar

The Passport on Wheels program continues to operate today, July 3, 2025 at the Provincial Capitol Gym.

Registered applicants are reminded to personally appear at the venue in proper attire and bring the complete documentary requirements as specified by the DFA.

The Passport on Wheels is brought by the Provincial Government, in coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs.

03/07/2025

LOOK || 11th Kabataan Caravan in Palapag, Northern Samar

The Provincial Government of Northern Samar, through the Provincial Youth Development Office (PYDO) and the Office of the Sangguniang Kabataan Provincial Federation, in partnership with the Local Youth Development Office (LYDO) of Palapag and the Pambayang Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan (PPSK – Palapag), successfully organized the 11th Kabataan Caravan at Capacujan National High School, Palapag, Northern Samar, on June 29, 2025.

The Kabataan Caravan is a flagship initiative that aims to bring essential youth training directly to local communities. It is specifically designed to reach young people, especially those who face barriers in accessing centralized training programs due to distance and financial limitations. By bringing the Caravan to different barangays each month, the program ensures that youth across the province have equal opportunities for personal and professional development.

The event officially began with opening remarks from Hon. Gerardo Gerard A. Meranda, PPSK Provincial Federation President. This was followed by messages of support from key local leaders, including Roniel O. Laoreno, PPSK Municipal Federation President of Palapag; Hon. Florence "FAWA" A. Batula, Municipal Mayor of Palapag; and Rosalinda S. Jarito, Municipal Local Government Operations Officer of Palapag. The program concluded with a heartfelt message of gratitude delivered by Ms. Izabelle L. Laoreno, Local Youth Development Officer of Palapag.

A major highlight of the 11th Kabataan Caravan was the series of simultaneous workshops conducted by various provincial offices, each focusing on practical and relevant topics aimed at equipping the youth with essential knowledge and skills. The Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) led an orientation on Waste Segregation, promoting environmental awareness and proper waste management practices. The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) facilitated training on Disaster Response and Community-Based Disaster Risk Governance, strengthening the preparedness of young individuals in times of emergencies. The Provincial Legal Office (PLO) discussed the Safe Spaces Act, advocating for safer and more respectful environments for all, especially among youth.

In support of sustainable agriculture, the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO) conducted a session on Organic Vegetable Production, teaching participants the basics of organic farming and food security. The Provincial Health Office (PHO) tackled the importance of Mental Health, emphasizing awareness, early intervention, and support systems. The Provincial Population Office (PPO) provided information on Adolescent Health and Development, addressing crucial topics like reproductive health and responsible decision-making. Meanwhile, the Northern Samar Public Employment Service Office (NSPESO) offered Skills Registration and Testing, helping participants explore career paths and assess their competencies. Lastly, the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO) conducted an Entrepreneurial Skills Development Seminar, encouraging youth to explore entrepreneurship as a viable livelihood option. These workshops collectively provided a holistic approach to youth development, addressing health, environment, livelihood, and legal awareness in a single, accessible platform.

The 11th Kabataan Caravan exemplifies the province's commitment to youth empowerment and inclusive development, bringing vital knowledge and skills to the grassroots level.

02/07/2025

𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐎𝐧𝐠𝐜𝐡𝐮𝐚𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐲 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲

On his second day in office, Governor Harris Ongchuan got more courtesy visits from national government agency heads and citizens’ groups who eagerly took up with the province’s top official development initiatives for Northern Samar.

Mr. Cesar Lagrimas and fellow members of the Samar-Leyte Texas Association discussed with the Governor the Association’s plan for a medical mission in the province, which program aligns with Governor Ongchuan's priority agenda – Health.

Along with Mr. Lagrimas, PhilHealth Eastern Visayas Regional Vice President Ronald S. Jabay also made a courtesy visit, discussing key PhilHealth programs including the Kunsulta package which can significantly assist Nortehanons in their medical problems.

DILG Provincial Director Geraldine Maquelabit also took time to see Governor Ongchuan in his office today. They had a meaningful exchange of ideas and updates on latest agency issuances.

02/07/2025

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 || 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐎𝐦𝐛𝐮𝐝𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐮𝐞𝐥 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬

An outstanding Nortehanon with exemplary service to the country, Ombudsman Samuel R. Martires was recognized by the Provincial Government, hosting a reception and awarding rites for the Ombudsman on June 30, 2025.

A native of Palapag, Northern Samar, Ombudsman Martires served as a beacon of inspiration and faith to Nortehanons, his life being a resplendent example of greatness achieved through hard work, talent and belief in the Almighty.

From humble beginnings to the highest echelons of government, Ombudsman Martires brought honor and pride to the province, initially serving as legal officer for the Department of Public Works, Transportation, and Communication, then as assistant department manager of the Ministry of Human Settlements in 1984, as presiding judge of the Regional Trial Court at Agoo, La Union, and afterwards as associate justice of the Sandiganbayan.

In 2017, he was appointed by then President Duterte as associate justice to the highest court of the land, the Supreme Court of the Philippines, and finally, as the Ombudsman of the Republic of the Philippines since 2018.

Congressman Edwin Ongchuan, with Governor Harris Ongchuan conferred the most special Kauswagan Award - the Governor's Special Citation to Ombudsman Martires, the only recipient such award this 2025.

On the same occasion, the Provincial Government through its Sangguniang Panlalawigan also commended the Ombudsman through an SP Resolution of Commendation for his service as an outstanding Ibabaonon. Authored by Board Member Don Abalon, SP Resolution No. 256 recognizes and perpetuates Ombudsman Martires’ legacy as an outstanding Ibabaonon worthy of emulation for his perseverance, sacrifice, and hardwork.

The awarding was led by Vice Governor Clarence Dato, Board Member Abalon and all members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. Present were Congressman Niko Raul Daza, former Congressman Paul Daza, heads of Provincial Government offices, local chief executives, lawyers, national government agency heads and representatives.

02/07/2025

𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 || 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

A continuing effort to enhance health service delivery while helping deserving Nortehanons to pursue their dream career, the Provincial Government is continuing its Medical Scholarship Program (PGNS - MSP) and is still accepting applications for the Academic Year 2025-2026.

In the meeting of the PGNS MSP Board yesterday, they have set the deadline for submission of applications until July 25, 2025.

Interested Nortehanon students studying in any CHED-accredited medical school in the country may apply for the scholarship and get as much as P170,000 scholarship benefit per semester.

Through the PGNS Medical Scholarship Program, the Provincial Government under the new administration of Governor Harris Ongchuan, hopes to strengthen human resources in the health sector by increasing the number of doctors serving in the hospitals in the province.

To apply, submit a complete set of the following documentary requirements:

1) Accomplished medical scholarship application form. This is available at the PGNS MSP Secretariat/TWG at the Office of the Provincial Administrator

2) Certified true copy of NMAT result (at least 50%)

3) PSA-issued Birth Certificate

4) NBI Clearance

5) Voter’s Certificate from the Commission on Elections

6) Notice of Admission to the medical program from the medical school

7) Certified true copy of Transcript of Records for the pre-medical course

8 ) Certificate of General Weighted Average (GWA) from the pre-med school, if the TOR doesn't indicate the GWA

9) Certificate of residency issued by the barangay where the applicant is a resident

10) Income Tax return of the parents for the immediately preceding year, or the tax exemption certificate of the parents. For indigents, a Certificate of Indigency issued by the MSWDO where the applicant’s parent is a resident.

11) Medical Certificate issued by a government physician within the last 3 months

12) Drug test result within the last 3 months

13) Psychological test result within the last 12 months

14) Certificate of Good Moral Character from the school last attended

For second year, third year, fourth year, medical intern or review applicants:
1. All of the above-mentioned requirements. In lieu of the notice of admission, the Certificate of Registration or any other proof of enrolment

2. Certified true copy of grades
Those admitted to the program are expected to render return service to the Provincial Government once they become licensed doctors.

For more details or to submit applications, please contact the PGNS MSP Technical Working Group through Ms. Amelita Noroña at the Provincial Administrator’s Office, 2F Provincial Capitol. You may also reach Ms. Noroña at (055) 500-9795.

02/07/2025

To all stakeholders who participated in the 35th Kauswagan Caravan, our great thanks!

The Provincial Government shares in the joy of our 35th Kauswagan Caravan community beneficiaries, made possible through the support of the Local Government Unit of Laoang, national government agencies, non-government organizations, private sector groups, our beneficiary BLGUs and the office of Congressman Harris Ongchuan.

Together, let us keep the spirit of volunteerism and community service alive in Northern Samar.

Check out these snapshots and feel free to share your own photos in the comments section!

02/07/2025

United in Building Resiliency Through Green Initiatives

In the thrust toward fostering a healthier environment and a more resilient community, the Provincial Government led a tree planting activity during the 35th Kauswagan Caravan in Brgy. La Perla, Laoang, Northern Samar.

Governor Harris Ongchuan was joined by his wife, Laoang Mayor Charlene, and second district representative Congressman Edwin Ongchuan in spearheading the activity yesterday, July 1, 2025. They were also accompanied by Ma’am Bles Ongchuan, wife of Congressman Edwin, and their son, Laoang Municipal Councilor Emil Ongchuan, who both took part in supporting the green initiative.

Also present to support this noble cause were other provincial and local officials, heads and representatives of national government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector groups.

While bringing aid and services closer to Nortehanons, the Provincial Government under the leadership of Governor Harris Ongchuan also hopes to create a lasting impact by combatting climate change through tree planting in every community.

01/07/2025

35th Kauswagan Caravan Serves 8 Communities in Laoang

Driven by a strong sense of community and volunteerism, the Provincial Government of Northern Samar, in partnership with various national and local government agencies, private sector groups, and civil society organizations, joined forces to deliver vital services to eight communities in the riverside district of Laoang through the 35th Kauswagan Caravan held today, July 1, 2025, at Barangay La Perla.

Marking his second day in office as Governor of Northern Samar, Gov. Harris Ongchuan, together with Cong. Edwin Ongchuan, representatives from multiple government agencies, led the the 35th Kauswagan Caravan—an initiative designed to deliver services directly to the people. A total of 1,905 families from the barangays of Bawang, San Antonio, Abaton, Cagdarao, Simora, Oleras, Bongliw, and La Perla benefited from the program.

Services provided ranged from free medical and dental check-ups, legal consultations, and civil registration, to the distribution of assorted vegetable seeds, tree seedlings, food packs, school supplies, toys, and other basic commodities. Residents of the riverside district expressed their gratitude for the timely support and assistance brought by the caravan.

A continuing program of the Provincial Government, the Kauswagan Caravan aims not only to deliver essential services and bring the government closer to the people of Northern Samar, but also to inspire hope and create meaningful impact in the lives of every Nortehanon it reaches.

01/07/2025

𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐦𝐛𝐮𝐝𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧 𝐎𝐦𝐛𝐮𝐝𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫

It’s second in Samar Island, the Ombudsman Assistance Center will be established in Catarman, Northern Samar. The blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the center, located at the Capitol Gym, was held yesterday, June 30, 2025.

Ombudsman Samuel Martires led the ceremonial ribbon-cutting, joined by top provincial officials -Governor Harris Ongchuan, Vice Governor Clarence Dato, Second District Congressman Edwin Ongchuan, Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, municipal officials, DILG provincial director Geraldine Maquelabit, other national government agency representatives and Provincial Government department heads.

Cong. Edwin Ongchuan thanked the Office of the Ombudsman for including Northern Samar in its plan to put up assistance centers nationwide, which will make transactions with the Office of the Ombudsman easier.

The center it was learned, will accommodate applications for Ombudsman clearances, submission of Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), and receiving of complaints.

01/07/2025

Padayon an KAUSWAGAN!

𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐔𝐊𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐆 𝐁𝐀𝐓𝐀𝐒 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐀 𝐒𝐀 𝐊𝐀𝐔𝐍𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐍 𝐍𝐆 𝐊𝐀𝐁𝐔𝐇𝐀𝐘𝐀𝐍 𝐀𝐓 𝐊𝐎𝐌𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐃𝐀𝐃

Ang mga panukalang batas na ito ay isinampa noong 𝐇𝐮𝐧𝐲𝐨 𝟑𝟎, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 bilang unang hakbang sa ating paninilbihan tungo sa isang makabuluhang pagbabago sa buhay ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino.

Bilang tugon sa pangangailangan ng ating mga pamayanan, isinusulong natin ang mga panukalang batas na nakatuon sa pagpapalago ng kabuhayan, pagpapadali ng serbisyo publiko, at pagsusulong ng inklusibong kaunlaran, lalo na sa mga lalawigan gaya ng Northern Samar.

𝟏. 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐍𝐨. 𝟔𝟎𝟏 – 𝐌𝐁𝐄 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

Nagmumungkahi ng pagtatatag ng ‘Green lanes’ upang mapabilis at mapagaan ang pagkuha ng mga permits at pagsunod sa mga regulasyon para sa micro business enterprises. Layunin nitong itaguyod ang pag-unlad ng maliliit na negosyo sa buong bansa.

𝟐. 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐍𝐨. 𝟔𝟎𝟐 – 𝐋𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐏𝐎 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

Layunin ng panukalang ito na gawing regular at opisyal na bahagi ng istruktura ng bawat lokal na pamahalaan ang posisyon ng Economic Development and Investment Promotions Officer. Makakatulong ito sa pagpapalakas ng lokal na ekonomiya at pag-akit ng mga pamumuhunan.

𝟑. 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐍𝐨. 𝟔𝟎𝟑 – 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐢𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐚-𝐏𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐠 𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐝

Ipinapanukala ang pagkilala sa Simora-Palapag Provincial Road bilang bahagi ng pambansang daan. Magbibigay ito ng mas maayos at ligtas na akses para sa mga komunidad sa silangang bahagi ng Northern Samar.

𝟒. 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐍𝐨. 𝟔𝟎𝟒 – 𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟒𝐏𝐬

Nilalayon ng panukalang ito na palakasin ang livelihood component ng Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. Maglalaan ito ng sapat na suporta at pagsasanay upang matulungan ang mga benepisyaryo na magkaroon ng mas matatag na kabuhayan.

𝟓. 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐍𝐨. 𝟔𝟎𝟓 – 𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧 𝐁𝐥𝐮𝐞 𝐋𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐀𝐜𝐭

Iminumungkahi na ideklara bilang opisyal na ecotourism site ang Pinusilan Blue Lagoon sa bayan ng Mapanas, Northern Samar. Magbibigay ito ng suporta sa pagpapaganda ng lugar, pangangalaga sa kalikasan, at pagpapaunlad ng lokal na turismo.

01/07/2025

NOW HAPPENING || Passport On Wheels Rolls Out at the Capitol Gym

Starting today, July 1, 2025, the Passport On Wheels (POW) program is officially under way at the Capitol Gym. This initiative is part of the Provincial Government’s effort to bring essential national services closer to the people.

Running from July 1 to 3, the program caters to individuals who registered during the pre-enlistment held last June 8, 2025. Passport processing will be facilitated by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in accordance with official POW guidelines.

Registered applicants who received their email appointments for today are reminded to personally appear at the venue in proper attire and bring the complete documentary requirements as specified by the DFA.

Stay tuned for updates and assistance on-site to ensure a smooth and organized process.