The National Statistics Office (NSO) will conduct interviews for the 2008 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) in August 2008. The NDHS aims to: a) collect data which would allow estimation of demographic indicators, particularly fertility and under five mortality rates; b) gather data on family and environmental health; c) collect information on awareness and prevalence of tuberculosis; d) determine the knowledge of women about HIV or AIDS; and e) determine the extent of violence against women. Results of the survey are expected to be available by August 2009. The survey is regularly conducted every five years by the NSO.

Compared to the 2003 NDHS, the 2008 NDHS includes additional questions on women’s safety but no longer includes a separate module for men. On the other hand, the number of questions on health has been reduced.  

Other major data items to be collected concern the following: a) background characteristics of women aged 15-49; b) reproductive behavior and intentions; c) family planning; d) maternal and child health; e) other health issues; and f) domestic violence. The NDHS will be conducted in all regions nationwide and will be carried out in 14,000 households and 17,000 females aged 15-49 as respondents.

The total budget for the survey is Php60.2 million, covering personal services (Php12.1 million), traveling expenses (Php27.0 million), supplies (Php2.2 million), printing (Php3.7 million), other maintenance and operating expenses (Php10.9 million) and capital outlay (Php4.3 million).  Survey cost per respondent is estimated at Php4,301. Cost of this year’s survey is higher by 48.6% compared to the 2003 NDHS due to inflationary increases in operating costs, primarily, the traveling expenses. The 2008 NDHS is a joint undertaking of the Philippine government and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

Clearance of the survey has been granted through the Statistical Survey Review and Clearance System (SSRCS), a mechanism instituted by the NSCB through Memorandum Circular Nos. 4-88 and 04-95. It aims to: (1) ensure sound design for data collection, (2) minimize the burden placed upon respondents, (3) effect economy in statistical data collection, (4) achieve better coordination of government statistical activities, and (5) inform the private sector and the public in general that a government survey operation has passed clearance and enjoin their cooperation in the conduct of the survey.                                                         

ESTRELLA V. DOMINGO
Assistant Secretary General

Contact Persons:

Ms. Fe Vida N. Dyliacco/ Ms. Emalyn P. Pineda
Tel. No.: 890-9404; Telefax No.:895-2436
E-mail: fvn.dyliacco@nscb.gov.ph/ ep.pineda@nscb.gov.ph