I think the source of confusion is that the
instructions guide has a note that seems to contradict this, at least in some cases: "
Note: If you were in your country of origin immediately prior to becoming a permanent resident and landing in Canada and this time falls within this four year period, you are NOT required to provide a police certificate. Please indicate this in the explanation box."
This would be my case, I lived in my country of origin immediately before landing
and I already provided PCC at the time, so it looks like I wouldn't need to do it again. That said, as I'm paranoid, I'm including an up to date PCC to my application (that I'll be mailing tomorrow)