Samar Province, Philippines

People of Samar

• As of the 2020 Census, Samar Province had a population of 793,183.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 780,481, showing gradual growth over five years.
• Samar is historically home to the Ibabao-Waray people, whose cultural identity predates Spanish colonization. Their traditions include oral epics, animist rituals, and community-based governance. The province also has indigenous ties to the Samarnon and Manobo groups in upland areas.
• The major dialect spoken is Waray-Waray, with Cebuano present in 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 Samar

• Samar Province is located in the central part of Samar Island in the Eastern Visayas Region (Region VIII). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 11.77°N latitude and 124.88°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 5,591 square kilometers, making it the third largest in the region. Its terrain includes rugged mountains, deep river valleys, and dense forests. The climate is tropical monsoon, with heavy rainfall from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• The capital of Samar is Catbalogan City, and the Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Mercedes, which houses the seat of government and administrative offices.
• Most people reach Samar via land and sea. From Tacloban City, travelers can take buses or vans to Catbalogan, with travel time averaging 3–4 hours. The Port of Catbalogan serves inter-island vessels, while the nearest airport is Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban.

Tourist Attractions of Samar

• Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park: Located in Basey, this park features caves, limestone formations, and lush forests.
• Pinipisakan Falls and Sulpan Cave: A hidden gem in San Jorge, ideal for trekking and spelunking.
• Catbalogan City Baywalk: A scenic promenade offering views of the Samar Sea and nearby islands.
• Calbiga Caves: One of the largest cave systems in Southeast Asia, located in Calbiga town.
• Saob Cave and Mat Weaving Center: A cultural site in Basey showcasing traditional banig weaving.
• Samar Day: Celebrated every August 11, this annual festival commemorates the province’s founding and features parades, cultural shows, and civic events.

Economy of Samar

• Samar’s economy is primarily agricultural and forest-based, with key sectors including:
  • Farming: Rice, coconut, abaca, and root crops are widely cultivated.
  • Fisheries: Coastal communities engage in aquaculture and small-scale fishing.
  • Forestry: Timber and non-timber forest products are harvested in upland areas.
  • Tourism: Eco-tourism and heritage sites contribute to seasonal income.
• In 2021, Samar posted a provincial GDP of ₱54.2 billion, with a growth rate of 4.4% despite pandemic challenges. It ranks mid-tier among Eastern Visayas provinces in terms of economic output.

Educational Institutions of Samar

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Samar State University (SSU): Located in Catbalogan City, SSU offers programs in education, engineering, agriculture, and business. It operates satellite campuses in Mercedes and Paranas.
  • Samar College: A private institution offering programs in liberal arts, teacher education, and criminology.
  • Northwest Samar State University: Located in Calbayog City, offering programs in science, technology, and maritime studies.
  • TESDA-accredited training centers: Provide vocational education in welding, electronics, hospitality, and other trades.

History of Samar

• Samar’s recorded history dates back to the arrival of Spanish missionaries in 1596. The island was known by various names—Ibabao, Tandaya, and Samal—before being officially named “Samar,” derived from the local word “samad,” meaning wound or cut, describing the island’s rugged terrain.
• The province was formally established by Royal Decree on August 11, 1841, with Catbalogan as its capital. It played a significant role during the Philippine Revolution and World War II, serving as a base for guerrilla resistance and American forces.
• On June 19, 1965, Samar was divided into three provinces—Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, and Western Samar (now simply called Samar)—through Republic Act No. 4221. This division aimed to improve governance and address regional needs.
• Today, Samar is known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, 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 Samar

• As of the 2025 elections, Samar Province is led by:
  • Governor: Sharee Ann Tan (PFP)
  • Vice Governor: Stephen James Tan (PFP)
  • Representative (1st District): Reynolds Michael Tan
  • Representative (2nd District): Milagrosa Tan
  • Board Members: Refer to the official Halalan 2025 results for the complete list.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Samar Election Results.

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