by: Neljun M. Catindin, AO III

In an impressive display of knowledge and acumen, the Department of Budget and Management RO XIII made its mark at the 16th Inter-Agency/Local Government Unit (LGU) Statistics Quiz with the theme ““Accelerating Progress: Promoting Data and Statistics for Healthy Philippines”. The event, held at the Watergate Hotel, J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City, showcased the RO’s knowledge and awareness on statistics, as represented by Caryl Mae S. Lusterio, Budget and Management Specialist I, and Katherine Mae O. Tacubao, Administrative Assistant III. Their outstanding performance led them to secure the third place out of twenty-eight (28) participating agencies.

As competitors, they went through a series of challenging questions that covered various aspects of official statistics, health statistics, vital statistics, population, inflation report, economic performance, current events, and other statistical indicators of Caraga region. The questions were designed to assess their practical knowledge of using statistics for real-world applications, and the duo excelled at each step.

Statistics serve as the backbone of informed decision-making in both public and private sectors. Accurate and relevant data is vital for planning, budgeting, and formulating policies that lead to effective governance. The Inter-Agency/LGU Statistics Quiz serves a dual purpose by providing an avenue for government agencies and LGUs to showcase their expertise in handling data and statistics while fostering camaraderie and cooperation among participants.

In recognition of their outstanding performance, they were awarded a cash prize of Php2,000, highlighting the event's commitment to acknowledging and rewarding excellence. Additionally, both participants received certificates of achievement, symbolizing their exceptional contributions to DBM's commitment to data-driven decision-making.

DBM RO XIII's active participation in events such as this reaffirms its commitment to good governance and fiscal responsibility. The recognition and rewards they received are not just a reflection of their dedication, but also an endorsement of their agency's commitment to using data to make informed, responsible, and transparent decisions for the benefit of the Filipino people.