The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reaffirmed its commitment to improving data-driven governance as it advanced efforts to harmonize agricultural statistics in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture (DA).
During a high-level meeting, PSA Undersecretary Claire Dennis S. Mapa, PhD, National Statistician and Civil Registrar General, underscored the critical role of data harmonization in enabling policymakers to design targeted and responsive interventions.
He emphasized that unified and reliable data are essential in addressing the needs of vulnerable sectors, particularly Filipino farmers.
The meeting, held with DA Undersecretary Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero, focused on aligning agricultural statistics produced by both agencies. These data serve as a vital foundation for decision-making, especially in light of current challenges faced by the country’s onion farmers.
As a key outcome, the PSA and DA are set to formalize a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that will establish a coordinated framework for producing unified, accurate, and timely agricultural data. This initiative forms part of the PSA’s broader strategy to strengthen statistical integration across government agencies through enhanced collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
Also in attendance were PSA Deputy National Statistician Divina Gracia L. Del Prado, PhD, Assistant National Statistician Rachel C. Lacsa, along with other officials and representatives from the PSA’s Agricultural Statistics Divisions and the DA.
The PSA remains steadfast in its mission to deliver high-quality statistics that inform policy, promote transparency, and support inclusive national development.
