Northern Samar yet again seems to be competing with itself.
Northern Samar has made history as the first local government unit (LGU) in the Philippines to institutionalize a Green Lane Policy, a landmark initiative designed to streamline investment processes and promote strategic, sustainable development—particularly in renewable energy.
Last year, Northern Samar made headlines after achieving the title of a first-class province.
Governor Edwin Ongchuan recently signed the ordinance titled “An Ordinance Institutionalizing the Green Lane Policy for Renewable Energy and Other Strategic Investments,” which aims to enhance the province’s competitiveness by creating a faster, more efficient system for processing investment proposals.
The ordinance was backed by Provincial Board Members Don Abalon, Marites Gillamac, Victorio Singzon II, Albert Lucero, Gilbert Layon, and Gerardo Gerard Miranda.
The Green Lane Policy introduces both fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to attract and support investors.
These include tax breaks, expedited permit processing, dedicated investment assistance, and ongoing aftercare services.
According to the provincial government, the policy is expected to not only accelerate economic growth but also position Northern Samar as a hub for renewable energy and other high-impact industries.
Central to the initiative is the creation of a unified entry point for investment proposals through the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO).
This office acts as the primary facilitator for investment applications, coordinating with LGUs to ensure a streamlined approval process.
The policy also introduces a system for simultaneous permit processing. For strategic investments, LGUs may authorize the provincial government to issue necessary permits on their behalf.
This significantly cuts down on waiting periods and administrative bottlenecks that often discourage investors.
“This is a major step toward making Northern Samar a more investment-friendly province,” said Gov. Ongchuan.
“By simplifying the process and providing clear incentives, we are signaling to investors that we are ready to do business—especially in sectors that align with our vision for sustainable development.”
The Green Lane Policy was first conceptualized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the provincial government and various LGUs.
The agreement outlined the responsibilities of each party in establishing a single-entry mechanism for investment proposals.
Under this setup, the provincial government reviews and endorses proposals before they are forwarded to the appropriate LGU for final approval or implementation.
The said innovative approach has in fact, earned national recognition.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. awarded the province in two separate ceremonies—on July 10, 2024, and March 13, 2025—for its leadership and initiative in promoting strategic investments and renewable energy development.
With the ordinance now in effect, Northern Samar hopes to attract a wide range of investors, especially those focused on clean energy, infrastructure, and eco-friendly enterprises.
Local officials believe that this move will not only stimulate the economy but also create jobs and promote long-term sustainability.
“This policy puts Northern Samar on the map,” Ongchuan added. “We are showing that even in far-flung provinces, innovation and good governance can lead the way to inclusive and sustainable progress.”
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