The recent upgrade of Northern Samar from a third-class to a first-class province is a testament to the region's potential and progress.
However, this achievement is a stark contrast to the stagnation plaguing Eastern Visayas as a whole.
As we congratulate Northern Samar for its ascension, we cannot help but wonder why its neighboring provinces in the region have failed to follow suit.
Eastern Visayas has long been touted as a region of immense natural resources, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes.
Yet, despite these advantages, it continues to lag behind other regions in terms of economic development and infrastructure.
The slow pace of progress is not only a disappointment but also a missed opportunity for growth and poverty reduction.
While Northern Samar's transformation from a third-class to a first-class province is a significant achievement, it is crucial to recognize that this success story is an exception rather than the norm.
The province's efforts to invest in infrastructure, tourism, and agriculture have paid off, attracting businesses and investors. On the other hand, the other provinces in Eastern Visayas seem content with maintaining the status quo.
The delay in development is not only attributed to the lack of investment but also poor governance and corruption.
The region's leadership has been plagued by inefficiencies, mismanagement, and corruption, which has hindered progress and driven away potential investors.
The neglect of critical infrastructure projects, such as roads, ports, and airports, has further exacerbated the problem.
It is high time for the regional government and local leaders to take stock of their performance and take concrete steps to address these issues.
The region's natural resources and cultural heritage are assets that can be leveraged to drive economic growth and development.
It is essential to create an environment conducive to investment, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
The slow progress of Eastern Visayas is not only a disappointment but also a wasted opportunity for its people.
It is time for the region's leaders to awaken from their slumber and work towards creating a brighter future for its citizens.
Only then can we hope to see the region reach its full potential and join the ranks of the more developed regions in the country.
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #OpinYonEditorial