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.

Unveiling the Literacy Landscape: Northern Mindanao’s Triumphs and Challenges

COURTESY: Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)  Northern Mindanao

An Overview of Basic Literacy in Northern Mindanao

In 2024, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) revealed that Northern Mindanao achieved a commendable basic literacy rate of 90.8 percent, positioning the region sixth overall in the nation. This statistic highlights the concerted efforts made by local governments and educational institutions to promote literacy as a fundamental right. However, it is crucial to delve deeper into the variations among provinces and highly urbanized cities (HUCs) to understand the underlying factors contributing to these disparities.

The City of Cagayan de Oro emerged as a beacon of literacy, boasting the highest rate in the region at 96.1 percent, which surpasses the regional average by 5.3 percentage points. This extraordinary achievement reflects the city’s robust educational programs and community engagement initiatives aimed at enhancing literacy among its population. Following closely are the City of Iligan and Misamis Occidental, with literacy rates of 93.4 percent and 91.6 percent, respectively. These statistics indicate that urban areas tend to perform better, likely due to more accessible educational resources and infrastructure.

Disparities in Literacy Rates Across Provinces

Conversely, some provinces in Northern Mindanao face significant challenges in achieving higher literacy rates. Camiguin, Bukidnon, and Lanao del Norte reported rates below the regional average, with figures at 90.7 percent, 90.5 percent, and a concerning 83.3 percent, respectively. These disparities suggest that while urban centers thrive, rural areas may lack the necessary support and resources for educational advancement. Addressing these gaps is crucial for fostering a more equitable educational landscape across the region.

Transitioning towards a more inclusive approach, stakeholders must collaborate to develop tailored educational programs that cater to the unique needs of each province. By investing in teacher training, infrastructure, and community outreach, Northern Mindanao can elevate its literacy rates further, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. For more information on this enlightening survey, please refer to the [Special Release](insert link of Special Release) by the PSA. 

While Northern Mindanao has made significant strides in basic literacy, continuous efforts are essential to bridge the existing gaps and cultivate a literate society that empowers its citizens.