Cebu’s statistics committee undergoes estructuring

CEBU, Philippines — To strengthen data-driven governance and eliminate policy overlaps, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro has ordered a major reorganization of the Provincial Statistics Committee (PSC), scrapping a 2021 issuance and refining its current structure and functions.

Executive Order No. 33, Series of 2026, seeks to improve coordination and clarity in the province’s statistical planning and policy framework.

In the order, Baricuatro emphasized the need to “harmonize and clarify existing issuances” affecting the PSC, a key body responsible for coordinating statistical activities in Cebu Province.

The EO formally repeals Executive Order No. 18, Series of 2021, which originally created the Provincial Statistics Committee, and modifies Executive Order No. 31, Series of 2025, to correct and update its provisions.

According to the governor, the existence of multiple issuances without clear repeal had resulted in overlapping directives that needed to be resolved to ensure efficient governance.

Under the new structure, the PSC will be chaired by the Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator (PPDC) of the provincial government of Cebu, reinforcing its link to development planning functions.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Provincial Statistics Officer for Cebu will serve as vice chairperson.

The PSA Provincial Statistics Office will also serve as the committee’s secretariat, handling documentation, coordination, and technical support.

The EO allows member agencies to designate permanent and alternate representatives who are authorized to make decisions on their behalf during PSC meetings, ensuring continuity in governance.

It also grants the committee flexibility to adjust its composition and invite additional agencies or resource persons depending on the statistical issues being addressed.

As stated in the order, the PSC chair shall “call to order and adjourn the meeting, lead the discussions, ensure adherence to rules, and announce decisions of the majority,” among other functions guiding formal proceedings.

The PSC is tasked to oversee implementation of statistical standards, formulate local statistical policies, strengthen statistical capability, and establish inter-agency working groups to address technical concerns.

It will also be responsible for elevating unresolved statistical issues to the regional level and developing the Provincial Statistical Development Program to support long-term planning.

Among its expanded roles, the committee will prioritize data-driven resolutions that support monitoring of provincial and national development plans, including the Sustainable Development Goals.

The PSC is mandated to meet at least quarterly, or more frequently when necessary, and is expected to convene ahead of regional statistical meetings to ensure provincial concerns are immediately addressed.

Resource persons may also be invited to PSC meetings, allowing the committee to consult experts or stakeholders on specialized statistical concerns.

Funding for the PSC’s operations will be covered by the provincial government, while other activities will be jointly funded by the province and the PSA Provincial Statistics Office, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening data systems.

Furthermore, the PSC will serve as Cebu’s “clearing house for all statistics,” mirroring the functions of the Regional Statistics Committee in Central Visayas. — (FREEMAN)