Republic of the Philippines

Philippine Statistics Authority

PRESS RELEASE
Give truthful data, PSA urged respondents
Date of Release: January 19, 2018
Reference No. 2018-02

The Philippine Statistics Authority urged respondents to give truthful and honest answers to
data collectors as they conduct the Labor Force Survey this month.
According to Provincial Statistics Authority Antonet B. Catubuan data from this survey is
essential in determining employment rate of our country and region for the current period.
“LFS provides information on the creation and generation of gainful employment and
livelihood opportunities, reduction of unemployment and underemployment, and
enhancement of the welfare of the working person,” PSO Catubuan said.
The LFS according to PSO Catubuan, also, intends to gather data on the demographic and
socio-economic characteristics of the population based on a “past week” reference period.
Based on the latest results of Labor Force Survey, unemployment rate in Western Visayas
increased to 5.6 percent in October 2017 from 2.9 percent a year ago.
The labor force participation rate (LFPR) in the said month was estimated at 60.4 percent,
down from the LFPR in October 2016 which was estimated at 63.0 percent. The labor force
consists of the employed and the unemployed.
Meanwhile, underemployment rate in October 2017 dropped to 13.7 percent which is lower
compared to 22.8 percent a year ago. Underemployment rate is the percentage of the
underemployed to the total employed.
PSO assured respondents that all information will be held strictly confidential as provided
for by law.

ANTONET B. CATUBUAN
Chief Statistical Specialist

Redepermavic Bldg., North Capitol, Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan

Telephone: (036) 268-9217
Email: psa04aklan@gmail.com