IPIL, ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY — Members and representatives of the Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Statistics Committee (PSC) came together once again for their third regular meeting on 25 July 2025, held at the PSA Training Room, YOHO Center in Sanito, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.

The meeting served as a venue for collaboration among national and provincial government agencies, as well as other stakeholders, to talk about the province’s growing statistical needs. These discussions help ensure that decisions made by the government are backed up by solid, reliable data, specifically in areas like planning, budgeting, and program implementation.

Presiding over the meeting was PSC Vice Chairperson, Atty. Richard D. Tabigne, who warmly welcomed the participants and set the tone for a productive discussion. Members engaged in the agenda items where each presented for discussion and review.

The presentation of 2025 Countryside in Figures highlighted its contents, which compiles essential provincial and municipal-level data from various sources. These include key indicators on general information, education, public safety, livestock and poultry, vital statistics, nutrition, poverty, agriculture, health, and other socio-economic sectors. The publication is a product of collaborative efforts with partner agencies, serving as a testament to the province’s shared pursuit of transparency, accountability, and sustainable progress.

The 2025 Updating of List of Agricultural Farm Operators and Inland Fishing Households and 2025 Listing of Marine Fish Landing Centers (ULAFO-LMFLC) is one of the Philippine Statistics Authority’s important statistical undertakings. The activity aims to improve the accuracy and coverage of the country’s agriculture and fisheries statistics. To ensure its success, the PSA called on member agencies to show their support by endorsing a motion to assist in this nationwide effort.

An update on the ongoing 2024 Census of Population and Community-Based Monitoring System (POPCEN-CBMS) activities was presented to inform the committee members of the current progress of the initiative. The presentation provided a clear picture of where we stand as of this reporting period—highlighting completed milestones, ongoing efforts, and any challenges encountered.

The Department of Education – Division Office of Zamboanga Sibugay took part in the meeting by sharing key statistics on the state of basic education in the province. The data provided valuable insights into current enrollment figures, number of schools, workforce capacity and relevant key performance indicators. This information helped the committee gain a clearer understanding of the educational situation in the province, which is essential for informed planning, policymaking, and identifying areas that may need support or intervention.

Meanwhile, updates on PSA-LGU data turn-over to local government units (LGUs) were presented during the meeting. The presentation highlighted the ongoing coordination between the PSA and the LGUs to ensure that the data gathered is properly shared and utilized. By keeping LGUs informed and involved, the PSA strengthens local planning and data-driven governance.

The Provincial Veterinary Office also shared their accomplishment report for the first and second quarters of the year. Their presentation outlined the various efforts being carried out to support animal health and welfare across the province. These include ongoing veterinary services such as livestock vaccination, deworming, disease prevention campaigns, and other field activities.

In line with this year’s 36th National Statistics Month, the proposed activities were shared for the committee’s information. With the PSA leading the celebration, PSC members are encouraged to actively participate and support the planned events throughout the month.

PSA also took the opportunity to showcase some of its digital products that are readily available to the public through its official website. These include QuickStat, infographics, special releases, and press releases. By highlighting these resources, the PSA encouraged stakeholders to explore and use the data for planning, research, policymaking, and community development.

As Zamboanga Sibugay continues to grow and develop, the importance of timely and accurate data becomes even more critical. The Provincial Statistics Committee, through its regular meetings and active participation of member agencies, reinforces its commitment to fostering a culture of evidence-based decision-making.

With continued collaboration and open exchange of information, the committee aims to build a stronger foundation for effective governance and inclusive progress across the province.

ATTY. RICHARD D. TABIGNE
Chief Statistical Specialist

CMB/MAM/ROP