“The year 2024 has proven to be quite dynamic for the Philippine Statistics Authority Regional Statistical Services Office IX, marked by a variety of activities. A standout initiative this year was the 2024 Census of Population and Community Based Monitoring System (POPCEN-CBMS). This undertaking has objectives to update population statistics at the local and national level, update social registries for beneficiary targeting, and support in evidence-based planning and project implementation. Over 700 individuals were hired for this project, including Statistical Researchers (SRs), Team Supervisors (TS), and Census Area Supervisors (CAS), providing valuable job opportunities for Filipinos. The operation commenced in September 2024 with efforts focused on gathering data, field validation and saturation activities to ensure that no one is being left behind.

Furthermore, Zamboanga Peninsula was chosen as a pilot region for the Environmental and Natural Resources Accounting (ENRA) initiative. This project seeks to oversee resource utilization and management while connecting environmental considerations to economic factors.

PSA IX conducted an Appreciation Training on the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting 2012 Central Framework for our esteemed stakeholders from March 5 to 7, 2024. A technical session and field validation took place from August 6 to 8, 2024, in Pagadian City, where ENRA hired Contract of Service Workers. Moreover, the selected Regional Statistical Services Office IX and Central Office staffs visited a mining and quarrying firm as part of field validation.

I am pleased to share that despite the busy schedule of events, PSA Regional Statistical Services Office IX earned a special award for our significant contributions in achieving the Philippine Identification System Registration Target for the year 2023 which was awarded during the PSA's 11th Year Anniversary. The Provincial Statistical Office of Zamboanga del Norte was also honored with the Gold Award in the prestigious Anti-Red Tape Act Report Card Survey (ARTA RSC).

The PSA RSSO IX continuously maintained its partnerships with our valued stakeholders from the various government sectors. We have participated in numerous seminars, meetings, and training sessions, serving as a rich source of statistical data that enhances the decision-making processes of our policymakers.

As we move forward, PSA IX remains committed in delivering high-quality statistics to the public and other governing bodies, fostering improved and evidence-based decision-making."

Mewchun WS. Pamaran
Regional Director