PSA, USM Sign MOA to Strengthen Statistical Capabilities
March 10, 2026
Faculty members of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) shared their expertise in statistics as resource speakers during the Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS) Training on Basic Statistics for Local Government Units (LGUs) conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) – Cotabato from March 3 to 5, 2026 at the FCG Hotel and Convention Center in Kidapawan City.
The three-day training aimed to strengthen the statistical capacity of LGU personnel by enhancing their understanding and application of fundamental statistical concepts, promoting the effective use of local data and CBMS indicators in planning and program monitoring, and fostering collaboration with state universities and colleges in advancing evidence-based decision-making and improved public services.
Leading the sessions were Dr. Debbie Marie B. Verzosa, Dr. Anna Jean S. Garcia, and Dr. Daryl Mae C. Mamon, who facilitated discussions on fundamental statistical concepts, data collection and quality, and the practical application of statistical tools for local governance.
On the first day of the training, Dr. Verzosa discussed key concepts and uses of statistics in local governance, including the different types and sources of data, as well as proper data collection practices and the importance of data quality. Her lecture emphasized the role of reliable data in guiding evidence-based decision-making and improving local government programs and services.
Meanwhile, Dr. Garcia and Dr. Mamon led discussions on statistical analysis and introduced participants to statistical software such as Jamovi and SPSS. The sessions provided practical guidance on measures of central tendency and dispersion, as well as techniques for effective data visualization to support meaningful data analysis.
The final day focused on the application and integration of statistical concepts through a hands-on workshop, where participants analyzed and interpreted data from selected LGUs and presented their outputs with guidance from the USM resource speakers. Through the activity, participants further strengthened their competencies in data visualization, data interpretation, and data storytelling, reinforcing how statistical results can support evidence-based planning and decision-making at the local level.
In line with this initiative, the Philippine Statistics Authority–Cotabato and USM also formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed on March 6, 2026 at USM in Kabacan, Cotabato. The agreement signifies a continuing collaboration between PSA and USM in strengthening the statistical capabilities of LGUs and supporting capacity-building initiatives related to CBMS.
Through this engagement, the University of Southern Mindanao continues to extend its academic expertise to government partners, contributing to the advancement of data-driven governance and strengthening the capacity of local institutions to utilize statistical evidence in shaping responsive and sustainable development initiatives.
