Empowering Local Governance through Data: The Role of the Community-Based Monitoring System

 COURTESY: (APB/PIA-10)

In recent years, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has emerged as a pivotal player in enhancing local governance through data-driven initiatives. During the 2025 Regional Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS) Convention and Data Festival held in Cagayan de Oro City, officials emphasized the significance of CBMS as a vital tool for local government units (LGUs). By providing timely, accurate, and localized data, the CBMS empowers LGUs to make informed decisions that directly address the needs of their communities.

PSA Regional Director Janith C. Aves articulated the critical role of CBMS in facilitating evidence-based policy formulation, governance, and development planning. He asserted that the system supplies LGUs with the necessary data to design interventions that reflect the realities on the ground. This approach enables local governments to implement targeted programs that genuinely meet the needs of their constituents, thereby fostering more effective governance.

Advancing Community Welfare through Targeted Data

Maria Evangeline N. Non, chief statistical specialist at PSA-Bukidnon, elaborated on how CBMS promotes the development of "agile communities." By adhering to four guiding principles—data-driven governance, people-centered development, responsive and adaptive planning, and participatory governance—CBMS supports local governments in crafting tailored poverty alleviation and development programs. This localized focus allows LGUs to move beyond generic solutions, instead prioritizing what truly matters to each community sector.

Furthermore, CBMS plays a crucial role in providing essential data on pressing issues, such as access to clean water, education for out-of-school children, and vulnerability to disasters. Non emphasized that by placing people at the center of data collection, CBMS enhances the quality of life for community members and identifies areas where targeted interventions are most urgently needed. This data-driven approach fosters inclusion, accountability, and trust within communities, ultimately transforming how local governance operates.

The Community-Based Monitoring System represents a significant advancement in the quest for effective local governance in the Philippines. By empowering LGUs with accurate, localized data, CBMS not only enhances decision-making processes but also builds resilient and future-ready communities. As the PSA continues to champion this initiative, the potential for improved governance and community welfare remains promising.

Cagayan de Oro: A Beacon of Literacy in the Philippines

COURTESY: Cagayan de Oro City Information Office

In an era where education plays a crucial role in societal advancement, the city of Cagayan de Oro stands out as a shining example of excellence. Recently recognized by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Cagayan de Oro has earned the remarkable title of the second highly urbanized city in the Philippines with the highest basic literacy rate. Under the leadership of City Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy, the city achieved an impressive basic literacy rate of 96.1 percent, as reported by the 2024 Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS).

Basic literacy encompasses essential skills such as reading, writing simple messages, and performing basic mathematical operations. This high literacy rate not only reflects the city’s commitment to education but also highlights the effectiveness of local governance in promoting learning. Moreover, Cagayan de Oro's educational initiatives have laid a strong foundation for its residents, enabling them to engage more effectively in their communities and contribute positively to society.

A Step Beyond: Functional Literacy Achievements

In addition to its outstanding basic literacy rate, Cagayan de Oro has also secured a commendable ranking as the ninth highly urbanized city in the country for functional literacy, boasting an impressive rate of 84.4 percent. Functional literacy extends beyond basic skills; it involves the capacity to synthesize information and draw conclusions based on that data. This higher level of comprehension is essential in today's information-driven world, where critical thinking and analytical skills are paramount.

The achievements in both basic and functional literacy signify a commitment not only to educational access but also to the quality of education provided in Cagayan de Oro. This dual focus ensures that residents are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of modern life, enhancing their employability and overall quality of life. As the city continues to prioritize education, it sets a precedent for other urban centers across the Philippines to follow, fostering a culture of learning and empowerment throughout the nation.