Eastern Samar State University Set to Open Full-Fledged Campuses in Balangiga and Arteche

BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar – A significant step toward broader access to higher education in Eastern Samar has been achieved as the House of Representatives Committee on Higher and Technical Education approved two key bills that would transform existing extension units of the Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) into full-fledged campuses in the towns of Balangiga and Arteche.

Led by House Assistant Minority Leader and Eastern Samar Lone District Representative Christopher Sheen Gonzales, House Bill No. 3135 proposes the establishment of the ESSU–Balangiga campus. Simultaneously, House Bill No. 3136 seeks to convert the current ESSU–Arteche extension unit into a regular campus, strengthening the university’s presence in the province. Both bills are co-authored by House Minority Leader and 4Ps Party-list Representative Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan, demonstrating a united front in prioritizing education for the region.

According to Cong. Gonzales, this approval marks a pivotal moment in expanding access to quality higher education across Eastern Samar, with these new campuses ready to deliver high-caliber tertiary education to thousands of families. “No student should have to leave their home just to pursue a college degree,” he emphasized, highlighting the importance of making education accessible within communities.

Gonzales further emphasized that education remains the most powerful tool for progress, with this expansion enhancing the human capital of the province and preparing its youth to drive long-term development in Eastern Samar. This investment in education, he argued, is an investment in the future prosperity of the entire region.

Under the approved bills, the new campuses will be empowered to offer a diverse range of programs, including technical-vocational training, undergraduate degrees, and graduate studies. These institutions will also actively engage in research, extension activities, and community development initiatives, playing a vital role in advancing Eastern Samar and other parts of Region VIII.

As the sole state university in Eastern Samar, ESSU currently serves nearly 25,000 students, supported by a dedicated faculty of 721. Beyond its main campus in Borongan City, ESSU operates campuses in Can-avid, Guiuan, Maydolong, and Salcedo, in addition to the extension units in Balangiga and Arteche. This network of campuses highlights ESSU’s commitment to providing educational opportunities across the geographically dispersed province.

These strategic initiatives are aimed at easing the financial burden on families and creating a local pool of skilled professionals who can contribute to the region’s continued growth and prosperity. By bringing education closer to home, ESSU is empowering Eastern Samar’s youth and building a brighter future for the province.