PSA QUEZON CONDUCTS TRAINING ON STATISTICAL STANDARD CLASSIFICATIONS FOR STATISTICAL RESEARCHER
by Jerissa P. Milo

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) - Quezon conducted a training on Statistical Standard Classifications on December 20, 2024, at St. Jude Coop Hotel and Event Center, Barangay Isabang, Lucena City.

The training aimed to enhance the knowledge and awareness of statistical researchers regarding the various statistical standard classifications and statistics released by the PSA, from surveys and censuses. Recognizing the critical role of these researchers in data collection for different censuses and surveys, the PSA emphasized the importance of understanding the broader context and significance of the data they gather. The program commenced with an invocation followed by presentations on key statistical topics.

Statistical Specialist II Paul P. Dalwampo discussed the 2023 Provincial Annual Labor Statistics, while Statistical Analyst Michel G. Formanes presented the October 2024 Inflation Report. Statistical Specialist II Jerissa P. Milo provided the key indicators of the Family Income and Expenditures Survey, and Statistical Specialist II Emerose A. Dalwampo discussed the 2023 Poverty Statistics. Statistical Specialist II Rico V. Falculan concluded the presentations with an overview of civil registration.

This training initiative underscores the PSA's commitment to professional development within the agency and aims to strengthen the quality and accuracy of data collection efforts across Quezon province.

QUEZON’S INFLATION RATE SLOWS DOWN TO 3.6 PERCENT IN NOVEMBER 2024
by Emerose A. Dalwampo & Irene Joyce C. Avila

The headline inflation or overall inflation in Quezon eased to 3.6 percent in November 2024, from 4.1 percent in October 2024. This brings the average inflation rate of the province from January to November 2024 to 3.5 percent. In November 2023, inflation rate was lower at 1.7 percent.

The slowdown in the overall inflation in November 2024 was primarily influenced by the slower annual decline in the index of housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels at 0.7 percent during the month, from an annual increase of 4.6 percent in October 2024.

Food inflation in the province rose to 8.7 percent in November 2024, from 7.4 percent in October 2024. In November 2023, food inflation was lower at 1.0 percent.

The acceleration of food inflation in November 2024 was primarily brought about by the higher year-on-year index of vegetables, tubers, plantains, cooking bananas and pulses with recorded inflation rate of 10.1 percent, from an annual decrease of 6.2 percent in the previous month.

LUCENA CITY’S INFLATION RATE DROPS TO 3.0 PERCENT IN NOVEMBER 2024
by Emerose A. Dalwampo & Irene Joyce C. Avila

The headline inflation or overall inflation in Lucena City eased to 3.0 percent in November 2024, from 4.0 percent in October 2024. This brings the average inflation rate of the city from January to November 2024 to 3.7 percent. In November 2023, inflation rate was lower at 2.5 percent.

The slowdown in the overall inflation in November 2024 was primarily influenced by the slower annual decline in the housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels at 1.3 percent during the month, from an annual increase of 7.3 percent in October 2024.

Food inflation in Lucena City rose to 6.3 percent in November 2024, from 5.6 percent in October 2024. In November 2023, food inflation was lower at 0.8 percent.

The acceleration of food inflation in November 2024 was primarily brought about by the faster inflation rate of vegetables, tubers, plantains, cooking bananas and pulses at 7.0 percent, from an annual decrease of 15.1 percent in the previous month.

HIRED SRs, DATA PROCESSORS AND COSWs UNDERGO CYBERSECURITY TRAINING
by Emerose A. Dalwampo

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Quezon held a "Training on Cybersecurity Risk Management" on December 17, 2024, at the Provincial Statistical Office Conference Room and Data Processing Center, 3rd Floor of Pacific Mall, Lucena City. It was attended by data processors, statistical researchers, hired Contract of Service Workers (COSWs), and other PSA employees.

The primary goal of this training was to equip the participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively identify, assess, and mitigate cybersecurity risks within the agency. Before the commencement of the training, Provincial Statistics Officer Airene A. Pucyutan delivered her opening remarks. In her address, she emphasized the crucial importance of diligently applying the acquired knowledge to their day-to-day work in order to effectively prevent potential cybersecurity incidents within the agency.

The training was led by Information Systems Analyst I Rodbert C. Bagalacsa and Rey Khalid A. Susada. This training initiative demonstrates PSA Quezon's commitment to enhancing cybersecurity   awareness    and   preparedness within the agency, ensuring the protection of sensitive information and data for a smooth operation of its critical systems.

PSA QUEZON RECOGNIZES MEDIA SUPPORT THROUGH AN APPRECIATION PROGRAM
by Margarita G. Cada

Led by Provincial Statistics Officer Airene A. Pucyutan, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Quezon conducted a Media Forum and Appreciation Day on December 18, 2024, at Queen Margarette Hotel Downtown, Lucena City.

The event was attended by 26 media partners, including representatives from DZAT Life Radio, Radyo Pilipinas Lucena, Lucena Herald, Philippine Information Agency - Quezon, Midway Star, Quezon Media Network, Weekly Ritenews Journal, 101.5 Kiss FM, 98.3 One FM, Magik FM, Sentinel Times, Radio Kaisahan Sariaya, and Boses ng Barangay.

During the event, PSO Airene Pucyutan extended her sincere appreciation to all media partners for their invaluable support to the various activities of PSA Quezon and hopes for the continued collaboration in the years to come.

Statistical Specialist II Emerose A. Dalwampo then presented on "Stories Behind the Data," providing media representatives with insights into the various activities, significance, and uses of different surveys and censuses conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

The highlight of the event was the awarding of plaques of appreciation to media partners in three categories: Best in Media Relations, Outstanding Advocate for PSA Activities, and Active Partner in Information Dissemination. The media partners expressed their gratitude for the recognition and reiterated their commitment to supporting the PSA's endeavors.

This Media Forum and Appreciation Day served as a valuable platform for strengthening the partnership between PSA Quezon and the media, ensuring effective communication and dissemination of vital statistical information to the public.

PSA TEAM REVIEWS AND UPDATES QMS DOCUMENTED INFORMATION
by Danica O. Cabalsa

The Quezon Provincial Statistical Office organized a two-day training on Quality Management System (QMS) enhancement at Queen Margarette Hotel Downtown, Lucena City, from December 9-10, 2024.

Provincial Statistics Officer Airene A. Pucyutan initiated the training, outlining the objectives of the two-day program and the anticipated workshop outcomes. Following this, Supervising Statistical   Specialist Normita D. Pagkatipunan  presented   the findings of the 2024 Internal Quality Audit conducted on September 23, 2024. Notably, the office achieved zero minor/major non-conformances, a testament to the team's dedication.

The training covered a range of topics, including a QMS-PAWIM overview by Statistical Specialist II Ma. Del Z. Rosales, encompassing process flows, QMS documents, and the 2024 Risk & Opportunity Registries and Action Plans. Statistical Specialist II Rico V. Falculan presented a stakeholder analysis, identifying key beneficiaries of the PSA's data collection efforts.

Furthermore, Registration Officer II Jocelyn M. Maog introduced the 5S workplace standards, outlining their components and benefits. Statistical Analyst Carla C. Ramos provided insights into records management, covering life cycles, terminologies, and disposition schedules.

Concluding the training, Statistical Specialist II Roberto M. Ramos expressed gratitude for the active participation and contributions of all staff members, acknowledging their crucial role in the office's achievements.

PSA QUEZON HOLDS 2025 PLANNING WORKSHOP
by Irene Joyce C. Avila

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Quezon held its 2025 Provincial Planning Workshop at FarmKO Glamping and Fun Farming in Dolores, Quezon, from December 11 to 13, 2024, themed "Building a Resilient, Agile, and Future-Fit PSA,". Provincial Statistics Officer Airene A. Pucyutan, led the workshop by bringing together 36 personnel, including regular employees and Contract of Service Workers (COSWs), to discuss the 2024 accomplishments, plans and programs for the coming year.

The workshop emphasized the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges. Key highlights included a presentation by Statistical Specialist II* Irene Joyce C. Avila on the major accomplishments of PSA Quezon for the year, recognizing the hard work and dedication of all personnel. Following this, Senior Statistical Specialist Margarita G. Cada presented the 2025 Work Program/Work Plan and Calendar of Activities, outlining key tasks and events for the coming year.

Provincial focal persons presented updates on various statistical operations, including household-based surveys, agricultural statistics, census and sampling frames, and economic accounts. Furthermore, presenters also discussed vital topics on the Performance Management Plan (PPMP), the 2025 GAD Plan and Budget, Human Resource matters, financial and administrative updates, procurement matters, and COA Circular No. 2020-006.

The three-day event also incorporated engaging team-building activities, such as Zumba sessions, games, and a social event, fostering camaraderie among the participants.