A growing number of Cordillera-based businesses are now actively taking part in government data-gathering efforts.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, this move has signaled stronger trust and collaboration between the private sector and the agency.

From only two or three participants in previous years, over 50 companies have joined this year’s Survey of Philippine Business and Industry (SPBI).

The major increase reflects a positive shift in mindset toward transparency and data-driven development, according to Imelda Buyucan, Chief Statistical Specialist of PSA-Benguet, during the 2025 SPBI Regional Respondents Forum on Thursday in Baguio City.

“Before, when we invited participants to events like this, only two or three would attend. Now, there are a lot of you, and we are very happy,” she said.

Buyucan emphasized that the participation of the business community is vital in completing the country’s economic surveys.

“We cannot complete the economic surveys without your input and information. That is how important you are,” she said.

The survey gathers key data such as employment, revenues, sales, compensation, inventories, value of production and capacity utilization, which are then used to guide economic policy and planning.

“These are not just numbers—they show current trends and performance that help in policy and decision-making,” Buyucan added.

Daisy Rose Ordoñez, Statistical Specialist II from the PSA Central Office, explained that the data provided by businesses are essential in measuring the nation’s overall economic performance, feeding into indicators like the gross domestic product, gross regional domestic product and provincial product accounts.

“The survey is conducted online, and the results are directly received and processed by our central office,” she explained.

Private sector representatives also acknowledged the importance of their role in providing accurate data.

In a separate interview, HR official Justine Murphy of Goldrich Construction and Trading, said the forum helped “us to understand the importance of our participation and the need to continue providing them information. We will gladly continue to do our share to help the government obtain information to be used to guide our decision makers.”

Andrew Pinero of Baguio Country Club said survey data also help private firms decide where to invest and how to enhance services. (PNA)