At ADB's Data Division’s World Statistics Day 2025 Data Festival on 16 October, Alvin Mejia, Co-Team Lead of the Asian Transport Observatory (ATO), joined the panel discussion to underscore a simple message: data only creates value when it drives action. He noted that higher-volume, higher-velocity data does not automatically yield higher impact; the crucial step is translating numbers into clear, decision-ready insights. Many decision makers lack dedicated data teams, resources, and the capacity to "crunch the numbers," so practical synthesis—and the right partnerships—are essential to unlock value and move from evidence to implementation.

Other presentations showcased how trusted data sharpens ADB operations: talks probed progress and blind spots on poverty and inequality, demonstrated AI/ML uses—from post-flood mobility traces to enhanced satellite imagery and village-scale poverty maps—for faster, targeted action, highlighted how external data partnerships power analyses from digital connectivity to flood risk and low-emission zones, and outlined using input-output tables to pinpoint priority segments for low-carbon, climate-resilient solutions.

The program also included a session on using data to identify priority segments for low-carbon, climate-resilient solutions across the region—reinforcing the day’s core theme of translating evidence into practical development choices.