Eastern Visayas’ Hidden Gem
Key Strengths
- Unspoiled coastal beauty
- Young population (35.8% aged 14 and below)
- Growing workforce (58.82% aged 15-64)
- Abundant natural resources
- Emerging tourism industry
Demographic Insights (2015 Census)
- Median age: 21
- Youth dependency ratio: 61/100 working-age individuals
- Workforce: 459,085 individuals (15-64)
Investment Opportunities
- Coastal residential developments
- Eco-tourism infrastructure (beaches, resorts)
- Sustainable agriculture (coconut, fishing)
- Renewable energy (solar, wind)
- Education and training institutions
Why Invest in Samar?
Samar offers a unique blend of natural beauty, economic potential and relaxed lifestyle. With supportive local governance, growing tourism and promising demographics, this coastal paradise provides sustainable growth opportunities amidst pristine surroundings.
| Name | City/ Municipality | Population (2020) | Population (2015) | Annual Population Growth Rate (2015‑2020) | Area (km2) | Density (2020), per km2 | Brgy count |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Almagro | municipality | 9,273 | 8,942 | 0.77% | 51.36 | 181 | 23 |
| Basey | municipality | 56,685 | 55,480 | 0.45% | 513.01 | 110 | 51 |
| Calbayog | city (CC) | 186,960 | 183,851 | 0.35% | 880.74 | 212 | 157 |
| Calbiga | municipality | 23,310 | 22,982 | 0.30% | 283.70 | 82 | 41 |
| Catbalogan | city (CC), capital | 106,440 | 103,879 | 0.51% | 274.22 | 388 | 57 |
| Daram | municipality | 41,608 | 42,879 | -0.63% | 140.26 | 297 | 58 |
| Gandara | municipality | 35,242 | 34,434 | 0.49% | 573.49 | 61 | 69 |
| Hinabangan | municipality | 13,693 | 13,673 | 0.03% | 460.08 | 30 | 21 |
| Jiabong | municipality | 19,205 | 18,342 | 0.97% | 67.70 | 284 | 34 |
| Marabut | municipality | 17,842 | 16,962 | 1.07% | 143.55 | 124 | 24 |
| Matuguinao | municipality | 7,364 | 7,288 | 0.22% | 172.51 | 43 | 20 |
| Motiong | municipality | 15,276 | 15,156 | 0.17% | 174.40 | 88 | 30 |
| Pagsanghan | municipality | 7,959 | 7,945 | 0.04% | 30.00 | 265 | 13 |
| Paranas | municipality | 32,374 | 30,557 | 1.22% | 556.12 | 58 | 44 |
| Pinabacdao | municipality | 18,136 | 18,252 | -0.13% | 183.06 | 99 | 24 |
| San Jorge | municipality | 17,579 | 17,184 | 0.48% | 241.20 | 73 | 41 |
| San Jose de Buan | municipality | 7,767 | 7,769 | -0.01% | 366.90 | 21 | 14 |
| San Sebastian | municipality | 8,704 | 8,057 | 1.64% | 39.07 | 223 | 14 |
| Santa Margarita | municipality | 26,816 | 26,348 | 0.37% | 129.12 | 208 | 36 |
| Santa Rita | municipality | 42,384 | 41,591 | 0.40% | 411.77 | 103 | 38 |
| Santo Niño | municipality | 12,519 | 12,863 | -0.57% | 29.53 | 424 | 13 |
| Tagapul-an | municipality | 8,805 | 8,473 | 0.81% | 28.70 | 307 | 14 |
| Talalora | municipality | 7,856 | 8,057 | -0.53% | 27.96 | 281 | 11 |
| Tarangnan | municipality | 25,713 | 24,992 | 0.60% | 132.49 | 194 | 41 |
| Villareal | municipality | 27,394 | 28,230 | -0.63% | 98.54 | 278 | 38 |
| Zumarraga | municipality | 16,279 | 16,295 | -0.02% | 38.55 | 422 | 25 |
| Samar Total | 793,183 | 780,481 | 0.34% | 6,048.03 | 131 | 951 | |
Economy
| Fiscal Year | Annual Regular Income | Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | 758,453,326.97 | – |
| 2010 | 808,652,543.72 | 6.62% |
| 2011 | 871,231,899.46 | 7.74% |
| 2012 | 831,487,497.78 | -4.56% |
| 2013 | 922,294,199.37 | 10.92% |
| 2014 | 1,036,418,575.54 | 12.37% |
| 2015 | 1,181,203,656.35 | 13.97% |
| 2016 | 1,293,561,381.71 | 9.51% |
| End notes:Annual Regular Income = Locally Sourced Revenue + Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) Current Year + Other Shares from National Tax CollectionLocally Sourced Revenue = Real Property Tax (General Fund) + Tax on Business + Other Taxes + Regulatory Fees + Service/User Charges + Receipts from Economic Enterprises | ||
Tourism
Western Samar, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, is a coastal paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Its pristine beaches, verdant jungles, and untouched islands offer boundless opportunities for eco-tourism.
Visitors to Western Samar can explore hidden natural wonders, embark on thrilling outdoor adventures, and revel in the tranquility of unspoiled beaches. The province’s serene beauty is a captivating escape for those seeking solace in nature’s embrace.
