Top: Left to right-CSS Agustin presents the 2024 FLEMMS results; SSS Fernandez delivers the 2nd Quarter 2025 Inflation Report; Mr. Whilmar Villanueva of DepEd-Quirino discusses the implications of FLEMMS result; Bottom- PSA Quirino personnel with stakeholders during a photo opportunity

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Quirino Provincial Office successfully conducted the 2024 Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) Provincial Dissemination Forum cum Inflation Report for the 2nd Quarter of 2025 on 30 July 2025, at the DISADECO Main Function Hall, Andres Bonifacio, Diffun, Quirino.

In her opening message, Chief Statistical Specialist Engr. Cherry Grace D. Agustin emphasized the vital role of literacy in nation-building. “The results of the 2024 FLEMMS remind us that functional literacy is not merely a personal achievement but a collective effort and shared responsibility. We at PSA remain committed to providing accurate and timely data as a basis for policies and programs that uplift the lives of every Filipino. Here in Quirino, let us work hand in hand to ensure that no one is left behind, that every individual gains not only the ability to read and write, but also the competence to use knowledge meaningfully,” CSS Agustin said.

CSS Agustin reported that 90.7 percent, or 9 out of 10 Quirinians aged 5 and above, are basically literate, equivalent to around 183,000 individuals. Meanwhile, 73.0 percent, or 7 out of 10 Quirinians aged 10 to 64, are functionally literate, representing about 148,000 individuals. The survey further showed that females recorded higher functional literacy rates at 77.6 percent compared to 68.6 percent for males, and higher basic literacy rates at 91.8 percent versus 89.6 percent for males.

Following the presentation, Mr. Whilmar M. Villanueva, Education Program Supervisor in Mathematics of DepEd-Quirino discussed the implications of the findings. He noted that overall, the province’s basic and functional literacy rates remain high, which is a positive sign and not a cause for alarm. However, he emphasized that continuous interventions are still crucial to sustain and further improve literacy levels. 

Mr. Villanueva pointed out the need to address foundational learning challenges, reexamine the curriculum, and ensure that teacher education and professional development meet the needs of learners. He also stressed the importance of focusing on literacy at an early age while implementing localized and differentiated programs tailored to community needs. He further underscored that institutionalizing literacy within the curriculum and assessment systems is essential, citing the Bridge to Bolster Mastery (BBM) program as one of DepEd’s key initiatives moving forward.

Meanwhile, Supervising Statistical Specialist Karen T. Fernandez presented the Inflation Report for April to June 2025. She reported that headline inflation in the province was at 0.0 percent in April, increased to 2.2 percent in May, and dropped again to 0.4 percent in June 2025. 

The forum gathered participants from national government agencies, local government units, the provincial government, academe, and media partners, fostering dialogue and collaboration in addressing literacy and economic concerns.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Accountant I Archie Ferrer, who expressed gratitude to all attendees. He emphasized that the forum aimed to provide valuable information not only for policymaking but also to deepen the understanding of the community’s educational landscape and identify the steps needed to further improve its quality over time.

ENGR. CHERRY GRACE D. AGUSTIN

Chief Statistical Specialist

//sdb