The Palay Production Survey (PPS) is one of the major agricultural surveys conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). This generates estimates and forecasts on palay production, area and yield and other production-related data that serve as inputs for policy making and programs on palay/rice. It is one of the two modules of the PCPS, the other one being the Corn Production Survey (CPS).

The data generated from this survey are disseminated through special releases, bulletin and publications, namely:

o Special release (quarterly)
• Rice & Corn Situation & Outlook
• Seasonally Adjusted Rice Production & Prices

o Bulletin (quarterly)
• Rice & Corn Quarterly Bulletin

o Publication (annual)
• Palay Production in the Philippines
• Crops Statistics of the Philippines

The collection of data of this survey is undertaken by hired Statistical Researchers (SRs). The SRs are trained prior to field operation to ensure that the procedures and concepts are understood. The training includes mock interviews and dry-run exercises.

This manual aims to guide the SRs to carry-out their duties and responsibilities during data collection. This contains basic concepts and definition of terms, techniques in conducting an interview, procedures in filling out the questionnaire and manual editing of accomplished questionnaires. It is hoped that the proper use of this Manual among SRs will contribute to the attainment of timely and quality data for palay.