
Region IV-A Regional Director Charito C. Armonia (3 rd from the left) with PSA IV-A Chief Statistical
Specialist, PSA Laguna Chief Statistical Specialist and PIA Modulator during the Kapihan program.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in Region IV-A (CALABARZON) took center stage during the simultaneous “Kapihansa Bagong Pilipinas” held on Tuesday, July 23, 2024.
This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to spotlight regional accomplishments, orchestrated by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) through the Philippine Information Agency (PIA).
In her address, PSA-IV-A Regional Director Charito Armonia highlighted the significant milestones of the region. She proudly announced that CALABARZON’s economy expanded by 5.2 percent in 2023, underscoring its unique position as the only region among 13 others where the industrial sector drives economic growth.
Furthermore, Armonia noted that CALABARZON leads the nation in vital statistics, recording the highest numbers in births, marriages, and deaths.
A significant achievement shared was the registration progress for the Philippine National ID (PhilID) in CALABARZON. Armonia reported that 13,117,180 individuals have registered, with 6,614,992 PhilIDs delivered and 6,936,088 printed electronic Philippine IDs (ePhilID) issued. Additionally, under the Rehistro Bulilit Program, 102,630 children aged one to four have been registered, and 122,758 beneficiaries of the PantawidPamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) have received authenticated National IDs.
During the Q&A session, Armonia addressed concerns regarding establishments refusing to honor the PhilID due to the absence of a holder’s signature. She clarified, “The omission of the signature is intentional to prevent forgery. The PhilID is a valid ID because it contains the holder's biometrics, which cannot be replicated. Establishments refusing to accept it can be reported to the PSA Hotline and will face appropriate sanctions.”
Armonia also highlighted the successful turnover of data to local government units (LGUs), with 33 ceremonies for those participating in the 2022 Community-based Monitoring System (CBMS) and five LGUs for the 2023 CBMS.
Joining Armonia were PSA Laguna Chief Statistical Specialist Magdalena T. Serqueña and PSA IV-A Chief Statistical Specialist Benigno F. Perido. Serqueña urged the business sector to cooperate with ongoing surveys, while Perido elaborated on the agency’s various programs and initiatives.
The event showcased PSA-IV-A’s commitment to transparency and collaboration, reaffirming its role in driving the region’s progress and development.