Northern Samar: The Northern Samar provincial government is optimistic about enhancing its economic relationship with Benguet following the recent signing of a sisterhood pact. This initiative aims to bolster economic growth and cooperation between the two regions.

According to Philippines News Agency, Jhon Allen Berbon, head of the Northern Samar Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office, stated in a phone interview that the top officials from both provinces formalized the sisterhood pact on March 14 at the Benguet Provincial Capitol in La Trinidad. The memorandum of agreement signifies a commitment to exchanging best practices in various governance aspects.

The signing ceremony was attended by Benguet Governor Melchor Diclas and Northern Samar Governor Edwin Ongchuan, alongside other key officials from both provinces. "The partnership is a powerful step forward for both provinces, representing a commitment to progress and development, especially in areas that will drive long-term benefits for the people, such as in governance, culture, education, and many more," Berbon emphasized.

The provincial governments have pinpointed ten primary areas of cooperation within their sisterhood pact. These include tourism development, agriculture enhancement, local economic enterprise, information and technology, urban planning and development, socio-cultural activities, income-generation strategies, fiscal management, health care facilitation, and public education improvement.

The collaboration areas were identified after a benchmarking visit by Benguet's board members and department heads to Northern Samar in August 2024. The visit aimed to observe and potentially replicate Northern Samar's best practices in facilitating and promoting investments. The Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office in Northern Samar has successfully implemented innovative strategies, attracting billions in investments, particularly in the alternative energy sector.