Guimaras opens 36th Statistics Month with Data Festival

The 36th National Statistics Month (NSM) celebration in Guimaras officially opened with the 2nd Guimaras Data Festival on October 6, 2025, led by the Provincial Statistics Committee (PSC) and the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) in partnership with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Guimaras.

The festival gathered local officials, partner agencies, and data stakeholders to highlight the role of statistics in evidence-based policymaking and development planning.

Held at the Municipal Tourism Building, Jordan Wharf, the event featured the Data Expo Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony, marking the start of the month-long celebration.

The exhibits showcased statistical products and innovations from participating agencies, reinforcing the value of accessible and timely data in promoting inclusive growth.

Jordan Mayor Atty. John Edward G. Gando, in his welcome message, underscored the importance of reliable data as a foundation for effective governance and local policy formulation.

PSC Chairperson Leonard S. Pasiderio, also the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer and concurrent Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator, delivered the event rationale and turned over the Guimaras Ecological Profile 2024 to the provincial government.

The profile contains updated environmental and socio-economic indicators to guide local development strategies.

Vice Governor Cecile Gumarin, speaking on behalf of Governor Ma. Lucille L. Nava, MD, officially declared the festival open and reiterated the province’s commitment to data-driven governance and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

She emphasized the critical role of data in formulating responsive programs and promoting inclusive progress across the province.

Guimaras was also recognized as the Best Local Government Unit Advocate for Statistics for 2022 and 2023 and is nominated again for the 2024 award to be given at the 26th NSM Closing and Awarding Ceremonies.

The ceremonial ribbon-cutting was jointly led by Vice Governor Gumarin, Mayor Gando, and Pasiderio, with support from SSS Vicente Geonanga and PSC members.

Statistical Specialist II Ellen Grace Galaura of PSA Guimaras introduced the agencies and offices that presented infographics, publications, and innovations reflecting progress in economic, environmental, and social indicators.

The 2nd Guimaras Data Festival is a major highlight of the province’s NSM celebration, themed “Accelerating the SDG Pace of Progress: Mobilizing Data for All.”

The festival aims to promote statistical awareness, encourage data literacy, and foster collaboration among data producers and users to advance sustainable local development.