Northern Samar Province, Philippines

People of Northern Samar

• As of the 2020 Census, Northern Samar had a population of 639,186.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 622,423, reflecting a modest increase over five years.
• Northern Samar is historically home to the Ibabao-Waray people, with cultural roots distinct from the Waray-Waray of Leyte and Eastern Samar. The Inabaknon community of Capul Island also maintains a unique language and identity, unrelated to Waray or Cebuano.
• The major dialect spoken is Waray-Waray, with Inabaknon spoken in Capul and Cebuano present in some southern municipalities. While these dialects shape local identity, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and global readiness.

Location of Northern Samar

• Northern Samar is located at the northern tip of Samar Island in the Eastern Visayas Region (Region VIII). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 12.33°N latitude and 124.67°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 3,694.96 square kilometers, with terrain that includes coastal plains, rugged hills, and river valleys. It is bordered by the Philippine Sea to the east and the San Bernardino Strait to the northwest.
• The capital of Northern Samar is Catarman, and the Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Dalakit, which houses the seat of government and administrative offices.
• Most people reach Northern Samar via land and sea. From Tacloban City, travelers can take buses or vans to Catarman, with travel time averaging 6–7 hours. The Catarman National Airport offers limited domestic flights. The and Port of San Isidro connect the province to Luzon via Matnog, Sorsogon.

Tourist Attractions of Northern Samar

• Capul Island: Known for its historic lighthouse, Spanish-era church, and the unique Inabaknon language.
• Biri Rock Formations: Stunning geological formations shaped by centuries of wave action, located in the municipality of Biri.
• Dalupiri Island: A beach destination with white sand, coral reefs, and eco-tourism potential.
• San Vicente Islands: A cluster of islets ideal for island hopping and marine exploration.
• Manoglaya Festival: Celebrated in Catarman every October, this festival honors the province’s fishing heritage and features street dancing, fluvial parades, and cultural exhibitions.

Economy of Northern Samar

• Northern Samar’s economy is primarily agricultural and coastal, with key sectors including:
  • Farming: Rice, coconut, abaca, and root crops are widely cultivated.
  • Fisheries: Coastal communities engage in aquaculture and small-scale fishing.
  • Crafts and cottage industries: Weaving, mat-making, and native delicacies contribute to local livelihoods.
  • Tourism: Natural attractions and heritage sites support seasonal income.
• While province-specific GDP data is limited, Northern Samar contributes to the Eastern Visayas regional economy, which posted a GRDP of over ₱555 billion in 2024. The province ranks mid-tier in terms of economic output among Region VIII provinces.

Educational Institutions of Northern Samar

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • University of Eastern Philippines (UEP): Located in Catarman, UEP is the oldest state university in Eastern Visayas, offering programs in agriculture, engineering, education, law, and liberal arts.
  • Catarman National High School: One of the largest secondary schools in the province, known for academic and extracurricular excellence.
  • UEP Laboratory High School: Offers science-focused secondary education and serves as a training ground for future educators.
  • Technical and vocational schools: TESDA-accredited institutions provide training in welding, electronics, hospitality, and other trades.

History of Northern Samar

• Northern Samar was originally part of the undivided province of Samar. Its early history includes Spanish missionary settlements, resistance movements, and trade with Luzon and the Visayas. The town of Capul was a strategic stopover for galleons traveling between Manila and Acapulco.
• The province played a role in the Philippine Revolution and World War II, with local guerrilla forces resisting Japanese occupation. Historical landmarks such as the Capul Church and Lighthouse reflect its colonial past and maritime significance.
• Northern Samar was officially created as a separate province on June 19, 1965, through Republic Act No. 4221, which divided the old province of Samar into three: Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, and Western Samar (now simply Samar).
• Today, Northern Samar is known for its cultural diversity, natural beauty, and resilient communities. Despite challenges such as typhoons and economic limitations, the province continues to grow through education, tourism, and sustainable development.

Elected Officials of Northern Samar

• As of the 2025 elections, Northern Samar Province is led by:
  • Governor: Harris Christopher M. Ongchuan (NUP)
  • Vice Governor: Clarence E. Dato (PFP)
  • Representative (1st District): Paul Daza
  • Representative (2nd District): Edwin Ongchuan
  • Board Members: Refer to the official Halalan 2025 results for the complete list.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Northern Samar Election Results.

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