TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) – Batanes has emerged as the Philippines’ fastest-growing province, according to the 2023 Economic Performance Report recently released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
The report shows that Batanes recorded an impressive 14.5 percent economic growth, leading the nation’s provinces. Following closely are Camiguin at 11 percent, Aklan at 9.5 percent, Nueva Vizcaya at 8.7 percent, Ilocos Norte at 8.6 percent, Ilocos Sur at 8.5 percent, Eastern Samar at 8.1 percent, Guimaras at 7.9 percent, Catanduanes at 7.6 percent, and Romblon at 7.3 percent.
Governor Marilou H. Cayco attributed Batanes’ rapid economic growth to the full reopening of its doors to visitors, which has significantly boosted its tourism sector.
“The provincial government has implemented various reforms and initiatives to foster the continuous growth of tourism,” Cayco said.
She said the post-pandemic interventions include robust marketing efforts, support for tourism stakeholders, and capacity-building programs for tour guides, operators, accommodation providers, and even livelihood workers.
She also credited the province’s success to the collective efforts of local officials, the community, national government agencies, and the private sector. The unity and dedication of all sectors, from the provincial government down to the barangay level, have been key to Batanes’ economic success.
“The growth is also a result of our commitment to good governance and my administration’s mantra of ‘Serbisyong Mula Sa Puso.’ This achievement belongs to all the hardworking people of Batanes who continue to uphold the Ivatan culture of community and sharing,” she added.
Governor Cayco emphasized that despite being the smallest province in the Philippines and located in the typhoon-prone region, Batanes continues to thrive—a testament to the resilience of the Ivatan people. (OTB/PIA Region 2, with reports from the Office of Gov. Cayco)
