01 October 2024. The Batangas Provincial Statistics Office held the opening ceremony for the celebration of the 35th National Statistics Month (NSM) on October 1, 2024 with the year’s theme “Advancing Data and Statistics Through Digital Transformation: A Road to an Empowered Nation”. The annual observance of the NSM is pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 647, “Declaring the Month of October of Every Year as the National Statistics Month”, issued on 20 September 1990 by the President Corazon C. Aquino.

The ceremony commenced with an engaging welcome address from the Statistical Specialist II (SSII) Maria Ramirez, who emphasized that the celebration of NSM aims to foster, elevate, and cultivate a nationwide understanding and appreciation of the significance and benefits of statistics across various sectors of society and  the leap of changes from using Paper and Pencil Interview (PAPI) to Computer Assisted Personal Interview (CAPI) in capturing accurate and reliable statistics, improving efficiency and data quality. The opening remarks set a positive tone, highlighting how statistics serve as a foundation for effective policymaking and sustainable development.

To foster deeper engagement, SSII Ramirez delivered presentations on the programs and projects of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Batangas. Additionally, Registration Officer II Karlo Maru Dimaano presented the 2022 Batangas Vital Statistics Final Report, highlighting the importance of vital statistics for local and national authorities in planning human, social, and economic development. Administrative Aide VI Luisito Vergara also discussed the 2023 Construction Statistics from Approved Building Permits.

The ceremony also included a group statistical quiz for the PSA Batangas personnel. Each team comprised individuals from diverse units, enhancing collaboration, interaction and encouragement to share ideas within the group.

The event concluded with a resounding success, setting the stage for a month filled with activities aimed at enhancing the understanding and appreciation of statistics. The enthusiasm and commitment displayed by all participants reflect a collective recognition of the power of statistics in driving positive change.