The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Sarangani reaffirmed its commitment to advancing data-driven governance by successfully conducting the Municipal-Level Training, Coordination, and Field Visit on the Adoption of the Philippine Standard Industrial Classification (PSIC) on 06 December 2024. This milestone, held at Sunflower Hall, New Municipal Building, Alabel, Sarangani Province, was participated by 14 key personnel representing various municipal offices, such as the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO), Municipal Assessor's Office (MASSO), Municipal Police Office, Municipal Planning and Development Office (MPDO), Municipal Health Office (MHO), Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), and Municipal Administrator's Office. The activity, on behalf of Chief Statistical Specialist (CSS) Ismael B. Ramos, Jr., was facilitated by PSA Sarangani representatives led by Senior Statistical Specialist (SrSS) Carla Mary Lou D. Fusilero, accompanied by three selected statistical staff. 

Representing Municipal Mayor Hon. Vic Paul M. Salarda, Mr. Abner H. Labaniego, MPA, emphasized the transformative potential of the PSIC training during his opening remarks. He highlighted the importance of the said training and how it equips personnel to assign accurate industrial codes, ensuring reliable data for crafting sound economic policies and streamlining business operations.

SrSS Fusilero outlined the objectives and emphasized the critical role of the PSIC in optimizing the efficiency of the Business Permits and Licensing System (BPLS). She underscored the significance of Republic Act 11032, known as the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018, as a guiding framework for local government units (LGUs) to enhance service delivery.

Moreover, the training delved into the comprehensive structure and applications of statistical classification systems, with a particular emphasis on harmonizing LGU Business Registers with national standards. COSW Anna Rose C. Andres and COSW Zia Marie S. Retuyan facilitated the hands-on sessions, including coding exercises and tutorials on utilizing PSIC and Philippine Standard Geographic Code (PSGC) reference files. Participants were also introduced to advanced data tools like Excel’s Pivot Table function to generate precise and actionable statistical insights.

Throughout the activity, participants actively engaged in discussions and collaborative exercises that addressed challenges and opportunities related to adopting PSIC. They expressed commitment to apply their newly acquired knowledge towards enhancing local planning and governance.

This initiative is part of PSA Sarangani’s broader effort to strengthen partnerships with LGUs and support the generation of high-quality, standardized industrial statistics. By empowering local government offices with robust tools and methodologies, PSA Sarangani continues to pave the way for informed decision-making and more effective governance across the province.