The Philippine Statistics Authority – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PSA-BARMM) currently conducts its 2025 Regional Planning Workshop (RPW) from December 9 to 11, 2024, at the Waterfront Insular Hotel, Davao City. With the theme “Building a Resilient, Agile, and Future-Fit PSA,” the workshop serves as a platform for aligning goals and strategies for the coming year.

The three-day workshop brought together key officials, division chiefs, unit heads, and support staff from PSA-BARMM and its provincial offices in Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. Moreover, Dr. Claire Dennis S. Mapa, the National Statistician and Civil Registrar General of the Philippine Statistics Authority Central Office joined virtually via Google meet.

Engr. Akan G. Tula, OIC Regional Director, in his welcome address encouraged attendees to take the workshop seriously, emphasizing its importance in shaping the region's blueprint for the year. He spoke about challenges the office faces, however, despite these hurdles, he expressed optimism, urging everyone to stay committed to the PSA’s mission of delivering accurate, timely, and relevant data. “Think of this planning as a shared responsibility. We are here not just to plan but to guarantee our efforts directly benefit the communities we serve,” Tula remarked.

Dr. Mapa’s virtual message was a highlight of the workshop, focusing on building an agile and responsive statistical system. He shared insights into using innovative tools like satellite data, artificial intelligence, and administrative databases to enhance data collection and reporting. He also pointed to upcoming priorities, such as reducing backlogs in civil registration and advancing projects like the Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS). “Our job is not just about numbers. It’s about ensuring the data we produce is timely, accurate, and serves the needs of our stakeholders,” Mapa said.

The 2025 workload, including projects and activities, was presented by the OIC Chief of the Civil Registration and Administrative Support Division (CRASD), Ms. Noronisa D. Macadadaya, and the Chief of the Statistical Operations and Coordination Division (SOCD), Mr. Edward Donald F. Eloja. Furthermore, the 2025 workload analysis was discussed by the respective divisions and Provincial Statistical Offices.

The participants engaged in thoughtful discussions about upcoming programs and services. Each division had the opportunity to present its plans and priorities, from internal audits and legal services to statistical operations and civil registration. These sessions laid the groundwork for a productive and impactful 2025.

The event wasn’t just about planning; it was also an opportunity to celebrate PSA-BARMM’s contributions to national achievements. These include being recognized by the Presidential Communications Office as a top-performing agency for Freedom of Information services and by the Commission on Population and Development for its role in supporting the country’s population and development goals. These awards, NSCRG Mapa noted, are a testament to the dedication and hard work of the team.

PSA-BARMM is ready to embrace innovation and overcome challenges in 2025. The team is committed to improving processes, ensuring data accuracy, and making services more accessible to the people of BARMM. “Let’s continue to be agile and future-fit,” Tula encouraged. “The work we do impacts lives, and together, we can make 2025 a milestone year for PSA-BARMM.”

In attendance were division chiefs, unit heads, rank-and-file employees, and support staff of the RSSO BARMM; as well as key officials and personnel from the Provincial Statistical Offices of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.

Approved for release:

ENGR. AKAN G TULA
OIC-Regional Director

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