A survey refers to data collection activity in which the primary concern is to compile data or statistics on a particular class, segment, activity, or geographic area (sample) of a bigger population. It is a method of collecting information about the population in which direct contact is made with the units of study, e.g., individuals, organizations, communities, etc., through such systematic means as statistical survey forms, questionnaires and interview schedules. Census is the process of complete enumeration in which every unit of the defined population being studied is included.

• What aspects of a survey or a census are being reviewed by the NSCB?

The process of evaluating a survey and/or census proposal dwells primarily on the following aspects:

• the need for the conduct of the survey/census
• unnecessary duplication
• sampling design
• forms content and table format
• operational plan
• statistical outputs

• Are all statistical surveys/censuses subject to SSRCS?

All surveys and/or censuses sponsored and/or conducted by government agencies including corporations are covered by the system, regardless of funding source and of sample size.

• Are the Local Government Units (LGUs), Regional Government Offices and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) covered by the SSRCS?

The SSRCS is intended to be implemented nationwide. To date, the system has been institutionalized in six regions where the NSCB has its regional units.

Those sponsored by private agencies and NGOs are not covered by the review process. However, statistical surveys contracted by government agencies to NGOs and private organizations are covered by the system.
  

The NSCB requires survey proponents to secure clearance at least forty-five (45) days before the scheduled conduct of the survey to give ample time for the incorporation of NSCB recommendations. The application for clearance should be supported by the following documents:

• Statistical Survey Notification Form (SSRCS Form 1)
• Survey questionnaires
• Manual of Instructions
• Table Formats
• Pre-test results, if any
• Previous survey results, if any
• Survey proposal, if any
• any additional information not stated in the SSRCS Form 1

All documents should be submitted in two (2) copies to the:

RSCC Secretariat
NSCB Regional Division V
2/F F. Calagos Building
Rizal Street corner St. Vincent Subd., Cabangan
4500 Legazpi City

A Technical Sub-committee on Survey Design (TSSD) which is composed of professionals in survey design and other fields in statistics provides technical advice to the NSCB staff in reviewing the proposals.

• What period is covered by the clearance?

An expiration data is assigned for every clearance number given which is usually one year from date of application, except for regular surveys which are not often revised and are thus given up to three (3) years. If the clearance number is about to expire but the activity will be repeated in the following year/s, the proponent must apply again for renewal of clearance, following the same process as in the previous one.

• How does the NSCB indicate clearance or non-clearance?

Within a period of fifteen (15) working days from receipt of the complete documents, the NSCB shall review the various aspects of the survey/census and transmit to the proponent the action documented by SSRCS Form 3. This form indicates whether the proposal has been approved or disapproved and includes other recommendations aimed to further improve the system of data collection. If approved, the clearance number and expiry date are indicated. If disapproved, the reason for such is also indicated.

• How does the public know about the surveys that have been cleared?

The NSCB clearance number together with the expiration date is required to be printed on top of the first page of the questionnaire to be used in the survey. Likewise, the NSCB issues press releases informing the general public of the surveys which have been cleared. The purpose of this is to promote and seek the cooperation and support of the respondents.