For the past two years, the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has displayed vital day-to-day impact to the people and the economy, as felt especially with loss of family members, loss of mobility, and loss of income opportunity for many Filipinos, among others. Economic recession has been clearly visible based on trends such as increase in poverty rate, unemployment, and unrelenting public health issues.

 

On the third year dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and its harsh effects on the economy, the country is on its road to recovery. The people have adapted to the new normal scheme of working, schooling, and living together with the virus despite fears of getting infected. Some sectors play key roles in addressing the socioeconomic impacts of the pandemic. With the lifting of the travel ban, the country has opened its doors to foreign visitors, and the local government units have allowed both local and international tourists to visit provinces. The pandemic, despite its ill effects to the country, has nevertheless paved the way for opportunities which gave rise to alternative micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) activities, particularly capitalizing on online platforms.

 

Statistics plays a crucial and significant role in the pursuit of economic recovery. Foremost, in addressing the pandemic, the country’s health planners basically relied on the statistics provided to them. Statistical trends serve as bases for monitoring progress and strengthening support to agencies and sectors mostly affected by the pandemic and develop programs that sustain the country’s continuous pursuit to recovery. The country’s efforts towards recovery jumpstarted with the adoption of strong responsive socioeconomic policies based on relevant and accurate statistics.

 

This 2022, the Philippine Statistical System (PSS) celebrates the 33rd National Statistics Month with the theme, “Boosting the Country’s Recovery with Informed Decisions, Better Policies” which emphasizes the critical role of statistics in crafting the most appropriate decisions and policies that are needed to boost efforts for recovery. As the country’s recovery continues to take off, public and private sectors both play important roles by providing and producing the right data, actively participating in economic activities, and making informed decisions out of relevant available information.

 

As we continue implementing policies and programs towards the country’s recovery, let us consider that everyone has a significant role to play. Let us all take our part in the country’s efforts to fully recover.