In cooperation of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Alicia, the Philippine Statistics Authority – Zamboanga Sibugay spearheaded the conduct of Community Based-Monitoring System (CBMS) Convening of the Municipal CBMS Coordinating Boards held last 25 January 2024 at Municipal Hall, Poblacion, Alicia, ZSP. Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator Ms. Rosanilla Q. Dela Cruz presided over the meeting on behalf of the Municipal Mayor, Hon. Ardin B. Musa, Al-hadj. It was also actively participated by various departments in the municipality. Representatives from PSA – Sibugay were also present during the meeting.

Discussant Mr. Camilo M. Bagsican, PSA – Supervising Statistical Specialist presented the overview of the CBMS – highlighting the objectives, scope and coverage, legal bases, data privacy and confidentiality of information, general roles and responsibilities of the MCCB for the CBMS operations (per CBMS Council Resolutions), and timetable of activities. Citing Republic Act No. 11315, an act establishing a Community-Based Monitoring System and Appropriating Funds therefore, which was signed into law on April 17, 2019 by then president Rodrigo Roa Duterte. This law enables the Philippines’ adoption of a Community-Based Monitoring System that generates updated disaggregated data necessary for targetingbeneficiaries, conducting more comprehensive poverty analysis and needs prioritization, designing appropriate policies and interventions, and monitoring impact over time.

Meanwhile, PSA – Senior Statistical Specialist, Ma. Theresa R. Sumicad also discussed the possible assistance of the members of the CCBs for the CBMS Operations. She also presented the total number of data items and its indicators of each profile questionnaires (HPQ and BPQ).

Queries and suggestions were raised and addressed after the presentations. Guided by the expertise of the Philippine Statistics Authority, the session unfolded as a collaborative endeavor, setting the stage for unified efforts in community development and data management. Participants eagerly delved into discussions, laying the foundation for a promising journey ahead.

ATTY. RICHARD D. TABIGNE
Chief Statistical Specialist
Provincial Statistics Officer