The Philippine Statistics Authority – Dinagat Islands Provincial Statistics Office (PSA-DI) has successfully completed the geotagging of service facilities and government projects in the Province of Dinagat Islands as part of the 2024 Census of Population and Community-Based Monitoring System (POPCEN-CBMS). This activity aimed to generate shapefiles of geotagged infrastructure, which serve as critical references for research, planning, and evidence-based policymaking at both local and national levels.

Spearheaded by Chief Statistical Specialist Glennboy C. Liston, and with the support of Senior Statistical Specialist Christine F. Pegarit, Provincial Mapping Focal Person Allan G. Daga-as, his alternate Febrex Lakilak, and other technical staff, the PSA-DI team provided close supervision and field monitoring of four (4) Map Data Collectors (MDCs) and one (1) Team Supervisor deployed across the province’s seven municipalities. Their efforts ensured the accuracy and completeness of the collected data while promptly addressing operational challenges encountered in the field.

A key challenge during the operation was the initial manpower allocation. The province was originally assigned with only three MDCs, which proved insufficient given the unique geographic landscape comprising scattered barangays and frequently experiencing unpredictable weather conditions. In response, PSA-DI hired an additional MDC to focus specifically on island barangays, enabling more efficient data collection and broader coverage. This strategic adjustment contributed significantly to the timely submission of cleaned and verified data files, which were officially submitted and certified on 30 April 2025.

PSA-DI commends the dedication and resilience of its field personnel, who carried out the geotagging operation despite the province’s rugged terrain and several days of unfavorable weather. Their hard work was key to the success of the activity. The Office also extends its appreciation to the hired Map Data Reviewer and Map Data Processor for their important role in processing geotagged points, reviewing features, and ensuring the accuracy of the data through careful error checking. 

With the successful completion of this initiative, PSA-DI reaffirms its commitment to providing high-quality, data-driven insights that support sustainable development and responsive governance.

For additional information, visit the official website (https://psa.gov.ph/) or like and follow the official Facebook page of PSA- PDI (https://www.facebook.com/PSADinagatIslands).

(Sgd.) GLENNBOY C. LISTON
Chief Statistical Specialist
Dinagat Islands Provincial Statistics Office