Top: CSS Agustin presenting the February 2025 Inflation Report; Participants take a pose for a photo opportunity

Bottom  (left to right): CSS Agustin delivering her welcome message; SS II Duque presenting overview on CPI; SrSS Lomboy discussing highlights on Agstat Surveys; Ms. Thelma Bicarme of PIA Quirino and Mr Jeremy Deanon of the PPDO sharing their insights during the open forum

Cabarroguis, Quirino, March 25 –The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Quirino Provincial Office successfully conducted the Respondents’ Forum cum Data Dissemination on February 2025 Inflation and Appreciation on AgStat Surveys on March 25, 2025, at ABRASA Multi-Purpose Hall, Diffun, Quirino. 

In her welcome message, Engr. Cherry Grace D. Agustin, Chief Statistical Specialist (CSS) expressed her deep appreciation for the respondents who took the time to attend the event, recognizing their vital role in PSA’s data collection efforts. She emphasized that without their contributions, government planners and policymakers would lack the necessary data to craft well-informed programs and interventions. She further highlighted that the PSA conducts surveys not just to collect numbers, but to provide meaningful insights that drive effective governance and economic strategies.

Ms. Liz T. Duque, Statistical Specialist II, presented an overview of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), discussing its legal framework, and the safeguards in place to uphold the confidentiality of collected data.

Shifting focus to the agricultural sector, Engr. Marison S. Lomboy, Senior Statistical Specialist, shed light on the results of agricultural surveys. The discussion emphasized the indispensable role of data in understanding agricultural trends, production levels, and challenges that influence both local and national policies.

The event also featured an open forum, allowing participants to engage in discussions and seek clarifications on the presented data. Ms.Thelma C. Bicarme of the Philippine Information Agency- Quirino inquired about how the government offices utilizes the data from the PSA.  Engr. Agustin, alongside Mr. Jeremy Deanon from the Provincial Planning and Development Office explained that these survey results serve as the foundation for subsidy programs and intervention efforts, ensuring that government resources reach the communities that need them the most.

Mr. Maynard Baingan, a respondent also posed a question about whether private institutions could also access PSA data aside from the government offices. CSS Agustin confirmed that businesses and private entities may also request PSA data as a critical resource for investment decisions, market assessments, and business planning. She emphasized that having access to reliable statistics helps entrepreneurs make informed choices when starting or expanding their businesses.

In her closing message, Engr. Marison Lomboy expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all the respondents and stakeholders who attended the meaningful event. She encouraged the participants to continue support all PSA’s initiatives. 

PSA Quirino reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening public awareness and collaboration in statistical data collection. As participants departed, they carried with them a renewed appreciation for statistics—not just as figures on a report, but as powerful tools that shape the future of Quirino Province.

ENGR. CHERRY GRACE D. AGUSTIN

Chief Statistical Specialist