Incheon:Ilocos Region Poverty incidence in the Ilocos Region has decreased significantly, reaching 4 percent in 2025, down from 8.4 percent in 2023, as per the Official Poverty Statistics reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). This decrease has resulted in a reduction of poor families to 56,910 in 2025 from 326,940 in 2023.

According to Philippines News Agency, PSA-Central Office Chief Statistical Specialist Bernadette Balamban explained that poor individuals and families are those whose income falls below the poverty threshold, as defined by the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev). These individuals cannot afford to sustain their minimum basic needs, including food, health, education, and housing, as per the Social Reform and Poverty Alleviation Act.

Last year, poverty incidence among families was recorded at 5.6 percent in Pangasinan, 1.9 percent in La Union, 2.4 percent in Ilocos Sur, and 0.0 percent in Ilocos Norte, According to PSA. DEPDev-Ilocos Region Director Stephanie Christiansen emphasized that crossing the poverty threshold does not necessarily equate to economic security, as many non-poor households still face challenges such as rising prices and debts.

Christiansen noted that while no single measure can fully capture human well-being, the poverty threshold is crucial for monitoring progress and ensuring that government resources are directed to those in need. She highlighted the daily struggles of many families in obtaining necessities like food, medical care, and education, and stressed the importance of addressing the underlying conditions that keep families vulnerable.