The Commission will have before it the report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics. In line with the decision of the Commission at its fifty-fourth session, in the report the Commission is requested to endorse the terms of reference for the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics Independent Advisory Board, developed through extensive and inclusive consultations and emphasizing the Board’s advocacy and advisory role. As background documents, two sets of implementation guidelines and advocacy material on the Principles will be presented: one for producers of official statistics and the other for stakeholders, including decision makers, data providers and users.

It is with great respect for the principles underpinning the integrity of official statistics that the Philippines endorses the terms of reference of the Independent Advisory Board.

Endorsing the terms of reference (TOR) of the Independent Advisory Board is crucial. These terms provide a clear guide for the Board's mission, aligning its functions with fundamental principles and ensuring operational efficiency. They also establish mechanisms for accountability and transparency, vital to fostering public trust.

We affirm the extensive and inclusive consultations that have meticulously shaped the terms of reference for the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics Independent Advisory Board. These consultations are necessary to consider diverse perspectives and insights, reflecting the critical importance of inclusivity and recognition of the evolving data ecosystem in strengthening the implementation of the principles in the Philippine Statistical System and in its statistical governance.

For the updating of the UNFPOS, the Philippines is of the view that discussions can be held at the regional and sub-regional levels to consider inclusivity and diversity of perspectives.

Through this statement, we reiterate our steadfast commitment to upholding the highest standards of statistical integrity and welcome the guidance that the Independent Advisory Board is expected to provide.