The Department of Health – Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Region X hosted the regional opening ceremony of the 34^th National Statistics Month celebration (NSM) in Region X on 06 October 2023. The 34^th NSM has a theme “Accelerating Progress: Promoting Data and Statistics for Healthy Philippines” which emphasizes the importance of data and statistics in enhancing health outcomes and aimed at accelerating the nations socioeconomic development with the use of quality health and health-related statistics. The opening ceremony was held in Cagayan de Oro City.

In her welcome message, Dr. Steffi Grace H. Enon, MPM-HSD, Assistant Director of DOH-CHD Region X recognized the dedication of statisticians, researchers, and health care professionals who all harness the power of data for positive change. She encouraged everyone to participate in the discussion and harness the power of information to stir our nation towards our future characterize by health and well-being.

Environment Planner Leonila G. Cajarte, Assistant Regional Director of National Economic and Development Authority – X (NEDA-X) also delivered a message highlighting the role of DOH in generating the key health indicators in the region and encouraging the participation of the Local Government Units, Academe, private sectors and members of the Regional Development Council to the various activities in line with the NSM.

Four speakers from the DOH-CHD Region X delivered updates on the Mental Health Situation in Northern Mindanao, Field Health Services Information System and its Accomplishments, and DOH Health Information Systems. An open forum followed after all presentations.

Ms. Sarah B. Balagbis, Chief Statistical Specialist of PSA-X, in her closing remarks, convey her gratitude for the DOH-CHD Region X for the hosting of the opening ceremony and for the stakeholders of PSA for the unwavering support and dedication to disseminate statistics in the region. She also informed everyone on the following activities for the 34^th NSM celebration:

1. Inter-Agency Exhibit and Infographics Making Contest (23-27 October 2023);

2. Statistiktok for College Students (18 October 2023);

3. Tree Planting Activity open to all RSC-X member agencies (20 October 2023);

4. NSM Trivia Contest in Facebook Page;

5. Data Appreciation Seminar for the Media Practitioners (25 October 2023, morning);

6. Official Statistics Quiz Show for the Media Practitioners (25 October 2023, afternoon); and

7. 34th NSM Regional Closing Ceremony (27 October 2023).

A total of 80 participants from regional line agencies attended the opening ceremony.

The 34^th NSM Closing Ceremony will be held on 27 October 2023 to be hosted by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas - Region X. The month-long celebration will be culminated with the Press Conference on the Northern Mindanao Inflation for September 2023 and with the awarding of contests winners.

PSA X enjoins the public to support the NSM celebration. Happy 34^th NSM!