Ilocos Norte records the lowest poverty rate in the Ilocos Region.
Laoag City – Ilocos Norte has once again secured its position as the least impoverished province in the Ilocos Region, a testament to the effectiveness of its ongoing poverty alleviation initiatives. With a poverty incidence of just 0.5 percent, the province stands alongside some of the most economically resilient areas in the Philippines, such as the National Capital Region (NCR), Benguet, Cavite, Laguna, Pampanga, Rizal, and Siquijor.
This remarkable achievement was underscored in the preliminary findings of the 2023 Family Income and Expenditure Survey (FIES), conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The FIES, which is conducted every three years, provides essential insights into the income distribution and spending patterns of Filipino households. The most recent data release in July 2023 confirmed Ilocos Norte’s ongoing success in significantly reducing poverty levels within its territory.
Gervy James Gumarit, head of Ilocos Norte’s communication and media office, attributed this success to the provincial government’s unwavering dedication to combating poverty. He emphasized that the administration’s efforts have particularly focused on strengthening key sectors such as agriculture, education, and employment, which are vital to the province’s economic health and the welfare of its residents.
“Under Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc’s leadership, Ilocos Norte has consistently ranked among the provinces with the lowest poverty rates nationwide. This achievement reflects the Provincial Government’s commitment to supporting our farmers and fishers, who are the foundation of our local economy,” Gumarit said during a press briefing on Wednesday.
A key example of the provincial government’s commitment is the “Agri Ka Dito” program, which aims to enhance the livelihoods of farmers and fishers by equipping them with the resources and support needed to boost productivity and income. Beyond improving agricultural output, the program also seeks to create more jobs, promote tourism, and support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the province.
In addition to these targeted initiatives, the provincial government has adopted a comprehensive strategy to address poverty from multiple perspectives. This strategy includes investing in education to ensure that young people have the skills they need to succeed in a modern economy, as well as creating job opportunities through partnerships with both the public and private sectors. The government has also prioritized infrastructure development, which not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also attracts investment, further driving economic growth.
For over a decade, Ilocos Norte has been consistently recognized as a first-class province with one of the lowest poverty incidences in the Philippines. According to the PSA, poverty incidence is defined as the percentage of families or individuals whose income is below the poverty threshold in relation to the total number of families or individuals in the area. Ilocos Norte’s sustained low poverty incidence is a clear indicator of the effectiveness of its poverty alleviation efforts and its commitment to improving the lives of its residents.
This consistent success is more than just a statistic; it represents meaningful improvements in the living conditions of the people of Ilocos Norte. By focusing on the needs of its most vulnerable citizens, the provincial government has established a sustainable development model that could serve as an example for other regions in the Philippines. The province’s continued efforts to reduce poverty, enhance livelihoods, and ensure economic stability underscore the vision and leadership of its local government, as well as the determination and hard work of the people of Ilocos Norte.
Looking ahead, it is evident that the strategies and programs currently in place will remain crucial in maintaining Ilocos Norte’s leadership in poverty reduction and economic development. The province’s success demonstrates that with targeted policies, effective leadership, and active community engagement, substantial progress can be made in the fight against poverty.
Ilocos Norte records the lowest poverty rate in the Ilocos Region.
