11 March 2024 – CELEBRITY HALL, GRAND ASTORIA HOTEL, ZAMBOANGA CITY. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Regional Statistical Services Office IX, in collaboration with the PSA Central Office, organized a comprehensive three-day training program focused on enhancing understanding and proficiency in the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA) Central Framework.

The training aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively apply the SEEA framework in their work related to environmental and economic statistics. This event has also brought together professionals and experts from various government agencies in Region IX, including representatives from key entities such as the Department of Tourism (DOT), Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources (OCENR), National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Zamboanga City Water District (ZCWD), Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), and Environmental Management Bureau (EMB). Additionally, participants from the Department of Agriculture (DA) and its field unit, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), were also present. These stakeholders are engaged in environmental and economic data collection and analysis, making their involvement critical in advancing the application of the SEEA framework in the region.

The event also featured esteemed speakers renowned for their expertise in compiling environmental accounts. Notable among them were the Chief Statistical Specialist of RSSO CAR, Mr. Aldrin Federico R. Bahit Jr.; Statistical Analyst (COSW) of RSSO XIII, Ms. Shenna Ace C. Bago; Supervising Statistical Specialist of RSSO X, Ms. Brenda Lynn M. Castro; and, the Statistical Specialist II of Region III, Ms. Joan L. Cabusao. These speakers brought their knowledge and experiences to the forefront, inspiring the participants to integrate the SEEA framework into their line of work, thereby contributing to the sustainability of our environment for future generations.

Furthermore, the PSA Region IX office is committed to supporting and promoting the enactment of international environmental-economic accounting standards, such as the SEEA, to enhance the quality and relevance of statistical information for a sustainable development in the Philippines.

MEWCHUN WS. PAMARAN
Regional Director

MGCN/KXBL