1. ROCHE E. OCAMPO - Cebu Normal University, Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu City 6000, Cebu, Philippines & Finance Management Service, Cebu Normal University, Cebu, Philippines.
2. MARIO S. MARABABOL - Cebu Normal University, Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu City 6000, Cebu, Philippines & Center for Research and Development, Cebu Normal University, Cebu, Philippines.
3. JAMES G. ESGUERRA - Cebu Normal University, Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu City 6000, Cebu, Philippines & Center for Research and Development, Cebu Normal University, Cebu, Philippines.
Covid- 19 pandemic has massively impacted different sectors in the world, not only did the virus take lives but it also affected socially and economically all countries across the globe. This study looks into the economy of Central Visayas, the Philippines in times of pandemic, specifically looking into the risk and vulnerabilities of the economic sector. Data collection was done through a review of records from government agencies and presented descriptively. The results show that the economy of Central Visayas was thriving despite the threatening pandemic. In terms of trade, the region remains one of the top contributors in terms of Gross Domestic Product, however, labor has been greatly affected due to the displacement of workers which led to unemployment and increased poverty incidence. Social amelioration was given for the affected labor force however at a limited budget. Finally, the health expenditure also remained a concern comparing the country among ASEAN communities. A tailored fit policy is recommended to ensure responsiveness to the economic need not only of Central Visayas but more importantly the Philippines as a whole.
Economic, Gross Domestic Product, Employment, Covid-19.