By Vinz L. Deocampo
Capiz was the second fastest-growing province in the country when it registered an 8.7 % Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate in 2024-2025.
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Capiz was only second to Occidental Mindoro with a growth rate of 11.2 %. On the other hand, Capiz’s growth nearly doubled the country’s 4.4 % average.
The growth of the Capiz economy was mainly attributed to wholesale and retail trade; agriculture, forestry and fishing; and the services sector.
PSA data also noted a significant rise in the aquaculture sector, which registered an increase of nearly 70%. This puts the value at P16.12 billion in 2025. In comparison, the value in 2024 was only P9.49 billion. This further boosted Capiz as the leading aquaculture producer in Western Visayas.
Capiz growth was also fueled by the sectors of transportation, food and accommodation, healthcare and professional services.
Officials including Governor Fredenil “Oto” Castro are elated with the good economic performance of the province.
“Ini nga kadalag-an indi lamang iya sang Gobyerno Probinsyal. Kadalag-an ini sang tagsa ka Capisnon (This victory does not belong to the Provincial Government alone. This is the victory of every Capisnon),” said Castro in a message.
Castro recognized the contributions of the farmers, fishermen, the local businesses, the investors, and the workers for strengthening the economy of Capiz.
Castro also called on the people of Capiz to use the 8.7% economic growth rate as an inspiration to do more.
“Ang matuod nga pag-uswag dapat mabatyagan sa tagsa ka panimalay, sa tagsa ka barangay, kag labi na gid sang aton mga kasimanwa nga mas nagakinahanglan sang oportunidad kag bulig (True progress must be felt in every household, in every barangay, and especially by our fellow citizens who are most in need of opportunity and help),” Castro added.
BOOMING CAPIZ- An aerial view of the Pueblo de Panay township in Roxas City, Capiz. The province is the second fastest-growing province in the country. (Photos courtesy of Pueblo de Panay & PSA)
