Eastern Samar Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales has expressed confidence that the province’s economy will expand at a faster pace and generate more jobs once Congress enables the establishment of a new coconut oil processing plant and two modern fish ports equipped with cold storage facilities.
“There’s no question that the proposed coconut oil refinery and fishing terminals will significantly boost Eastern Samar’s agricultural and fisheries production. These projects will uplift the lives of our people by creating new gainful employment and livelihood opportunities,” he said.
He made the statement following a report from the Philippine Statistics Authority, which showed that Eastern Samar recorded the fastest economic growth among the six provinces of Eastern Visayas (Region VIII).
Eastern Samar’s economy expanded by 10.2 percent in 2024, outpacing even the regional capital Tacloban City, which posted a very respectable 8.2 percent growth rate, the report stated.
“Economic growth is not just about higher numbers — it’s about creating jobs, opening opportunities, and raising household incomes,” Gonzales said.
“It means that where there used to be only one gainfully employed family member, there can now be two or three, each helping build a more secure and hopeful future,” he added.
