The Provincial Government of Northern Samar

08/09/2025

08/09/2025

𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞!

The Provincial Government of Northern Samar under the leadership of Governor Harris Ongchuan, joins the nation in celebrating the National Peace Consciousness Month 2025, officially opening the celebration this morning, September 8, 2025 at the Ibabao Hall, Provincial Capitol.

Anchored on the theme "Mapayapang Bukas Abot-Kamay sa Bagong Pilipinas," the celebration serves as a call for the Nortehanon community and all Filipinos to take part in achieving peace.

Gracing the event, BGen Carmelito Pangatungan, Brigade Commander of the 803rd Infantry Brigade, reiterated the agency’s commitment to safeguarding human rights and supporting peace initiatives in Northern Samar. He also called to continue pursuing sustainable peace, hope and development for the province.

Provincial Government officials and employees, along with peace and development partners from other government agencies reaffirmed commitment to promoting harmony, non-violence and mutual respect through the Pledge for Peace led by Ms. Melly Esponilla, a peace builder.

Simultaneous with the Peace Consciousness Month opening, Northern Samar also marked the Philippine Civil Service Month with the theme "Bawat Kawani, Lingkod Bayani: Puso, Dangal, at Galing Para sa Bayan."

A mark of their support to the vision for peace of the Provincial Government, and to the call for good governance, transparency and accountability, the Provincial Government was joined in the observance of both Peace and Civil Service Month by the DILG team led by Provincial Director Geraldine Maquelabit, PNP Northern Samar represented by PLTCOL Harris Rebato of NSPPO, DSWD Northern Samar Cluster Head Ms. Lucilla Montilla, PIA Manager Ailene Diaz and Teresita Cardenas, Provincial Government heads, employees and other public servants.

07/09/2025

Malipayon nga patron sa aton minahal nga bungto san Las Navas!

Tikang kan Gobernador Harris Ongchuan, Bise Gobernador Clarence Dato, mga miyembro san Sangguniang Panlalawigan, ngan sa bug-os nga Gobyerno Probinsyal, an amon mapaso nga pagbati sa ngatanan nga mga Las Navasnon sin malipayon nga pagsalin-urog san kapiyestahan ni Nuestra Señora De Natividad yana nga Setyembre 8, 2025!

Padayon kunta kamo nga bendisyonan san Ginoo. Happy fiesta!

07/09/2025

𝐋𝐚𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐬: 𝐀 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞

As the municipality of Las Navas celebrates its annual fiesta, we honor its natural wonders - the majestic Pinipisakan waterfalls, pristine river, and the rich cultural heritage this town holds.

𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐉𝐞𝐰𝐞𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐚𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐬
At the end of the winding Catubig River lies Pinipisakan Falls, a multi-tiered cascade surrounded by lush rainforests. Getting there is an adventure in itself—a scenic 45-minute motorboat ride from the town proper to Barangay San Isidro, followed by a short trek. Once there, immerse yourself in the icy-cold waters, relax in a floating cottage, or try rappelling down its dramatic cliffs. Summer is the best time to visit, when the waters are at their most inviting.

𝐓𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐠: 𝐖𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐫𝐭
Las Navas is also famous for its Tikog Banig—colorful, handwoven sleeping mats made from dried tikog grass. These mats, skillfully crafted by artisans from Barangay Bukid, have gained recognition beyond the Philippines, transformed into stylish bags, table runners, and other accessories.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐰𝐚 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞: 𝐆𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
Seven kilometers from Brgy. San Isidro lies the village of the Mamanwa Tribe, a community that continues to preserve its rich cultural heritage. Known for their deep connection to nature, they have kept alive their traditions of hunting, dancing, and intricate weaving.

One of their most treasured crafts is rattan weaving, in which skilled artisans create baskets and accessories using time-honored techniques. Visitors can witness their craftsmanship, engage with the community, and take home beautifully woven creations—a true reflection of Las Navas' vibrant indigenous culture.

𝐋𝐚𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐬: 𝐀 𝐇𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐆𝐞𝐦
Situated within the Samar Island Natural Park, a 333,300-hectare sanctuary of lush forests and diverse wildlife, Las Navas is an untamed paradise waiting to be explored. From cascading waterfalls and serene lakes to centuries-old traditions and indigenous artistry, this town is a testament to Northern Samar’s beauty, resilience, and cultural richness.

𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐚𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐬
No trip to Las Navas is complete without indulging in its beloved local delicacies—a true taste of Northern Samar’s rich culinary heritage. With their best “Karan-on” (food to eat) —you might just discover a hidden local favorite by visiting their local markets and pasalubong centers.

07/09/2025

𝐒𝐍𝐀𝐏𝐒𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐒 || 𝐊𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐝𝐞 𝐕𝐞𝐠𝐚

Together, let us keep empowering young people through knowledge-sharing, capacity development and values formation.

To our partner-agencies and groups, thank you for the valuable support!

On to the next Kabataan Caravan!

07/09/2025

𝐊𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐚𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐧 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐬, 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐋𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐝𝐞 𝐕𝐞𝐠𝐚

Inspired by the vision of fostering meaningful youth participation, the Kabataan Caravan travels across the province to empower young people through knowledge-sharing, capacity development, and values formation. It is a platform that strengthens the role of the youth as catalysts of progress and resilience in their communities.

Spearheaded by the Provincial Government under the leadership of Governor Harris Ongchuan, carried out through the Northern Samar Provincial Youth Development Office, in partnership with the Sangguniang Kabataan Provincial Federation, Philippine Councilors League - Northern Samar Chapter, the Local Youth Development Office of Lope De Vega, and the Pambayang Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan ng Lope De Vega, the program reached its 18th stop on September 5, 2025. Held at Lope De Vega National High School, the Kabataan Caravan gathered hundreds of students and youth leaders in an atmosphere of learning, collaboration, and inspiration, featuring a series of simultaneous sessions and workshops designed to address the needs of today’s young people.

•Provincial Legal Office (PLO): Safe Spaces Act

•Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO): Entrepreneurial Skills Development Seminar

•ALTEC: Learning to Earning Pathways (LEaP)

•Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO): Disaster Responders Training

•Northern Samar Provincial Police Office (NSPPO): Standing Against Deceptive Recruitment

•Provincial Population Office (PPO): Adolescent Health and Wellness

•Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO): Organic Vegetable Production

•Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO): Waste Segregation Orientation.

Board Member Emil Nicholas B. Ongchuan II, President of PCL Northern Samar Chapter, in his message, highlighted the collective responsibility of leaders and youth in shaping a better future.

Messages of support were also delivered by other local leaders who underscored the importance of youth empowerment and active participation in community building: Gerardo Gerard A. Miranda, Provincial SK Federation President and Ex-Officio Board Member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Northern Samar; Mayor Bobby C. Saludario, Vice Mayor Honney Belle Eden L. Bation, Municipal SK Federation President of Lope de Vega Karen Mae D. Oliveros and MLGOO Arceo Magdaraog of DILG.

The Caravan stands as a testament to the collective effort of leaders, educators, and partners in ensuring that the youth of Northern Samar are not only informed but also inspired to create positive change in their communities.

06/09/2025

Warmest wishes to our Vice Governor, Atty. Clarence Dato on his birthday today!

Thank you for your hard work and commitment to serving the Nortehanons. May God continue to bless you, give you a healthy mind and body as you continuously serve the people of Northern Samar.

Happy birthday, VG Clarence!

From Governor Harris Ongchuan, your PGNS Family and the Nortehanon community! 🥳

06/09/2025

WATCH || Northern Samar's iconic and sustainable tourism sites exhibited at the 36th Philippine Travel Mart

Congressman Edwin Ongchuan congratulated the Provincial Government for successfully showcasing the beauty, culture and opportunities of Northern Samar on the national stage, leading support for the exhibit with Governor Harris Ongchuan.

06/09/2025

𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡, 𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐬 𝐠𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐭!

Centered on the theme "United for Progress: Councilors at the heart of a Marig-on, Mainuswagon ngan Malipayon nga Nortehanon", the PCL Fun Run was a call for public service, unity and wellness.

Here are more snapshots of the PCL Fun Run earlier today. Grab your shots and tag your photo-mates! 😊

06/09/2025

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚 𝐟𝐮𝐧 𝐫𝐮𝐧! 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝟓𝟎𝟎 𝐫𝐮𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐂𝐋 𝐑𝐮𝐧 𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲!

All finishers of the 2km and 5km were greeted by the officers and members of the Philippine Councilors League - Northern Samar Chapter with the PCL finisher medal, while the following top runners received medals and cash prizes:

2km Category:
1st Placer — ₱5,000
Ronel Espejo (Palapag)
2nd Placer – ₱3,000
Ernesto Vibar (Catarman)
3rd Placer — ₱2,000
Ronald Marilla (Catarman)

5km Category:
1st Placer — ₱8,000
Jan Brixel Moncal (Catarman)
2nd Placer — ₱5,000
Vincent Abestros (Catarman)
3rd Placer — ₱3,000
Khennan Dino (Rosario)

A little more fun to cap off the run, participants joined the PCL officers and members for a Zumba session.

True to the words of PCL-NSC President Emil Ongchuan II, when Nortehanons come together, an early morning run can be turned into a celebration of health, unity, and community.

Happy PCL Month, everyone!

06/09/2025

𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭!

The Office of the President has released the official list of regular holidays and special non-working days for the year 2026. With this announcement, we can plan ahead our schedules for next year.

Here are the the holidays:

• January 1 (Thursday): New Year's Day (Regular Holiday)

• February 17 (Tuesday): Chinese New Year (Special Non-Working Day)

• February 25 (Wednesday): EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary (Special Non-Working Day)

• April 2 (Thursday): Maundy Thursday (Regular Holiday)

• April 3 (Friday): Good Friday (Regular Holiday)

• April 4 (Saturday): Black Saturday (Special Non-Working Day)

• April 9 (Thursday): Araw ng Kagitingan (Regular Holiday)

• May 1 (Friday): Labor Day (Regular Holiday)

• June 12 (Friday): Independence Day (Regular Holiday)

• August 21 (Friday): Ninoy Aquino Day (Special Non-Working Day)

• August 31 (Monday): National Heroes Day (Regular Holiday)

• November 1 (Sunday): All Saints' Day (Special Non-Working Day)

• November 2 (Monday): All Souls' Day (Special Non-Working Day)

• November 30 (Monday): Bonifacio Day (Regular Holiday)

• December 8 (Tuesday): Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary (Special Non-Working Day)

• December 24 (Thursday): Christmas Eve (Special Non-Working Day)

• December 25 (Friday): Christmas Day (Regular Holiday)

• December 30 (Wednesday): Rizal Day (Regular Holiday)

• December 31 (Thursday): Last Day of the Year (Special Non-Working Day)

For a copy of Presidential Proclamation 1006, series of 2025, click here 👇
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