PSA hands over 2024 CBMS data to Aklan LGU to strengthen local governance

KALIBO, AKLAN. All 17 municipalities in Aklan are now equipped with vital tools to enhance data-driven governance following the turnover of Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS) data by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Aklan Provincial Office in a ceremony held on September 19, 2025, at the Marzon Convention Center in Kalibo.

The turnover rites marked the formal transfer of comprehensive data collected from the 2024 CBMS, which will form part of each local government unit’s database for generating statistics and creating registries that will support more targeted and responsive programs.

The CBMS dataset contains detailed information on population and households, including demographic, economic, health, education, migration, access to water and sanitation, social protection programs, and housing characteristics, among others. It also includes shapefiles of geotagged points that can be overlaid on maps to identify household locations—an essential tool in disaster preparedness, relief distribution, and other community-targeting initiatives.

PSA Region VI Regional Director Nelida C. Amolar graced the occasion, wherein, in her message, she emphasized the importance of disaggregated, local-level data in designing evidence-based policies and programs, as well as in monitoring their impacts on the people and community.

A CBMS data collector uses the tablet in recording the responses of the respondent during the conduct of the interview with one of the household members.

A CBMS data collector uses the tablet in recording the responses of the respondent during the conduct of the interview with one of the household members.

She also extended her appreciation to the LGUs in Aklan and other partner agencies for their support in making the 2024 CBMS implementation a success.

During the ceremony, each LGU received a symbolic flash drive and a storage device containing the CBMS data. The handover was led by RD Amolar, assisted by Statistical Operations and Coordination Division Chief Marlene Y. Alviar, PSA- Aklan Chief Statistical Specialist Engr. Antonet Catubuan, Supervising Statistical Specialist Rodelyn Panadero, LGOO VII Susan Balsamo of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Aklan, and Ms. Amelita Mationg of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT)-Aklan.

The data were received by the respective mayors and/or municipal officials, representatives, and other participants, signsifying the formal transfer of responsibility and accountability for managing and safeguarding the information to each LGU.

Engr. Roger M. Esto, Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator, delivered the message of acceptance on behalf of the provincial governor and the municipalities. In his remarks, he underscored the value of accurate data for efficient, effective, and accountable governance, stressing that CBMS will be an invaluable tool in the province’s planning processes.

“The CBMS data serves as an essential tool for effective governance. It helps identify issues and concerns in our localities, supports the development of appropriate projects, programs, and activities, and helps determine more eligible beneficiaries of government PPAs,” said Engr. Esto.

He also presented the provincial government’s plans and programs for managing, securing, and utilizing the data to further enhance the implementation of PPAs in Aklan.

Meanwhile, DILG-Aklan’s Susan Balsamo highlighted the importance of maximizing CBMS data in formulating responsive and effective local plans.

“We assure the PSA that we will continue advocating for the use of these data because we believe that updated and accurate information is vital for the efficient and effective delivery of services to our constituents,” Balsamo said.

To provide participants with insights on the province’s current socio-economic situation, Senior Statistical Specialist and CBMS Focal Person Peter S. Mangilog presented the highlights of the CBMS, focusing on key Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicators.

Topics included access to electricity, safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene, safety and security, internet access, financial services, labor and employment, and education, among others.

In closing, PSA-Aklan Chief Statistical Specialist Antonet Catubuan expressed gratitude to the LGUs, partner agencies, and especially the data collectors for their support and dedication, which enabled the successful completion of the 2024 CBMS despite numerous challenges.

A total of 75 participants attended the province-wide turnover program, composed of municipal officials, planning officers, data protection officers, designated statisticians, other LGU staff, representatives from national agencies, and members of the media.