The annual National Statistics Month (NSM) kicked off today with government agencies highlighting the importance of statistics in charting the country’s progress towards its long-term vision, AmBisyon Natin 2040.

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) hosted the opening ceremony of the 28th National Statistics Month at Edsa Shangri-la Hotel in Mandaluyong City on Monday (October 2), with the theme “Facts and Figures for the Future: Statistics for Evidence-Based Decisions Towards AmBisyon Natin 2040.”

The theme of this year’s NSM, which is led by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), a NEDA-attached agency, reflects the role of reliable statistics and factual information in determining appropriate strategies for tracking the Philippines’ progress towards its long-term vision of a stable, comfortable and secure life (matatag, maginhawa, at panatag na buhay) for all Filipinos.

In line with the goal of laying down the foundation for a globally competitive knowledge economy and a high-trust society, speakers and attendees exchanged insights on the importance of statistics in data journalism, use of statistics in the academe, and processing of information in the age of social media.

Meanwhile, the Seventh NSM Media Awards was also held to acknowledge media outlets and reporters who have made significant contributions in promoting statistical information.

“Now, more than ever, we need statistics to track our progress. We need reliable numbers to tell us what’s true,” said NEDA Secretary Ernesto Pernia.

Pernia further underlined the need to constantly raise the standard and quality of statistics in the country. “Reliable statistics are among our tools to help people to enable citizens to be more discerning, for them to become smart and innovative. Government and the private sector should also be able to count on properly vetted statistics to make sound decisions and choices towards the country’s progress,” Pernia said.

Pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 647, “Declaring the Month of October of Every Year as the National Statistics Month,” the NSM aims to promote nationwide awareness and appreciation of the value of statistics among different sectors of society.

In a memorandum circular issued on September 24, the PSA called on all agencies of the government, academic institutions, and the private sector across the country to actively participate in and support the celebration of the NSM this month.

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