James Karl B. Calipes of the Provincial Statistics Committee (PSC) of Northern Samar emerged as Regional Champion in this year’s PSA Quiz Bee, a highlight activity of the 36th National Statistics Month celebration.
Calipes, a Certified Public Accountant assigned at the Northern Samar Electric Cooperative (NORSAMELCO) Main Office in Bobon, bested contestants from across Eastern Visayas in the annual statistics knowledge competition organized by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Taking second place was Dr. Norberto E. Milla of Visayas State University (VSU) in Baybay City, representing the Regional Statistics Committee VIII (RSC-8). Third place went to Assistant Professor Rovinson D. Gaganao of Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) Main Campus, who represented PSC Eastern Samar.
Other contenders included FO1 Kia Joanna A. Merwa (PSC Biliran), John Ray D. Ylanan (PSC Leyte), Christopher J. Llegado (PSC Samar), and Edil Balagon (PSC Southern Leyte).
Each participant was nominated by their respective PSCs and RSC member-agencies, reflecting the region’s broad support for statistical literacy.
The panel of judges was composed of PSA Regional Director Wilma A. Perante of RSSO 8, Chief Statistical Specialist Mae R. Almonte, and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Tacloban Branch Regional Head Victorio III Tingcang, Jr.
Organizers reiterated that the PSA Quiz Bee serves a vital purpose beyond competition.
It aims to cultivate public appreciation of the value of statistics, promote understanding of PSA mandates, and reinforce awareness of census and survey results that guide planning and policy-making.
The quiz also familiarizes participants with concepts used in official statistics, Civil Registration Services, and the Philippine Identification System.
Held every October, the National Statistics Month brings together agencies, academe, and local governments to foster a culture of evidence-based decision-making.
This year’s regional quiz bee once again noted the crucial role of statistical competence in governance and community development, with Calipes leading the region’s roster of top-performing statisticians.
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