PSA-Marinduque PSO recently initiated preparations for the 2024 Census of Population - Community-Based Monitoring System (POPCEN-CBMS) by organizing a consultative meeting to address municipal boundary issues in Marinduque on 14 April 2024, at the Marinduque Provincial Statistical Office.

The CBMS aims to gather crucial disaggregated data for local-level planning and monitoring, empowering communities in the process. This year, the CBMS will be conducted alongside the 2024 Census of Population (POPCEN) to streamline efforts and update social registries efficiently.

In anticipation of the 2024 POPCEN-CBMS, the PSA-Marinduque PSO has been involved in the Integrated Processing of Maps from Various PSA Activities since 2023. This initiative seeks to consolidate geospatial data sets from various map-based activities conducted by the PSA, with a focus on validating digitized territorial and administrative boundaries. However, discrepancies observed during the consolidation process highlight the need to address gaps and overlaps promptly to ensure the accuracy and completeness of census maps.

To address these issues, a meeting was convened with representatives from the Municipal Assessor Offices (MASSO), and Municipal Planning and Development Offices (MPDO) of the six municipalities in Marinduque, along with the Provincial Planning and Development Officer, EnP. Marian M. Cunanan, and the OIC-Provincial Assessor’s Officer, Mr. Abel Ramon Castillo. The meeting featured presentations on the background of map processing, delivered by PSA-Marinduque Chief Statistical Specialist (CSS) Gemma N. Opis, and identification of conflict areas within the municipalities, presented by Statistical Specialist II (SS II) Harvy Fabaleña. Following the discussions, an open forum was held, allowing participants to voice their concerns and suggestions.

Prior to the said activity, a meeting with the Municipal Planning and Development Officers of the six LGUs was already conducted on April 12, 2024, via online platform.

Ultimately, it was agreed that the PSA would utilize its existing operational map for the upcoming 2024 POPCEN-CBMS but is limited only for the said endeavor and will not necessarily be used in other official mapping or zoning activities in the province. Additionally, there was enthusiasm among attendees to develop and design digitized maps for their municipalities to be used in the 2027 CBMS, as well as by PSA and other agencies for future endeavors. This collaborative effort aims to ensure the accuracy and effectiveness of geospatial information utilized in data collection and planning processes.

For other information about the conduct of the 2024 POPCEN-CBMS, please reach us via email at marinduque@psa.gov.ph. Alternatively, you can also reach us via our landline numbers: (042) 332-0848 or (042) 754-0024.

(SGD)GEMMA N. OPIS
Chief Statistical Specialist
 

GNO/SJRDC