PSA personnel and MCRO staff together with the barangay secretaries of Hamtic

Hamtic, Antique – Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Antique, represented by Birth Registration Coordinators Ember Grace F. Dioso and Bryan Noel V. Marzoña, in collaboration with the Municipal Civil Registrar (MCR) Office of Hamtic, led by Municipal Civil Registrar Ramona Z. Mabaquaio, successfully conducted a seminar on civil registration for barangay secretaries. The seminar was held on September 25, 2024, at Liga Hall, Hamtic, Antique.

The seminar emphasized the importance of accurate and timely civil registration, which plays a vital role in the issuance of birth, marriage, and death certificates. The MCR of Hamtic discussed key topics including the standard procedures for registering vital events, the process for correcting clerical errors, and the guidelines for late and out-of-town registrations. “Birth registration is more than just a legal process; it is the foundation of a person’s identity and access to rights,” MCR Mabaquaio remarked. "Our aim is to ensure that no child is left unregistered and without the legal recognition they deserve."

Participants were also briefed on recent updates in the civil registration system, including the latest policies. Emphasis was placed on the role of barangay secretaries as key partners in ensuring that every vital event in their communities is properly registered, helping to maintain the integrity of local civil records.

BRC Dioso provided key updates on the Birth Registration Assistance Project (BRAP), emphasizing important procedures, benefits, and recent developments. Dioso reiterated the project’s guidelines while announcing significant improvements, such as the relaxation of documentary requirements and the provision of free PSA Birth Certificates under the initiative.

Beyond BRAP, the BRCs also shared updates on the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys), the government’s national ID program. They provided insights into the ongoing rollout and how it will complement birth registration efforts by offering all Filipinos a secure and verifiable proof of identity. “With PhilSys and BRAP working hand in hand, we are not only addressing birth registration gaps but also ensuring that every Filipino has a recognized legal identity,” Dioso explained.

The seminar featured an open forum, allowing barangay secretaries to raise concerns and clarify issues they encounter in the field. This collaborative discussion fostered a clearer understanding of the responsibilities and processes involved in civil registration.

The PSA and the MCR Office of Hamtic expressed their gratitude for the active participation of the barangay secretaries and reaffirmed their commitment to continually provide support and training to local partners in the civil registration process. The seminar is part of ongoing efforts to ensure that civil registration services are accessible, accurate, and efficient for all citizens of Hamtic.