Registering a child’s birth is an important and critical thing to do to ensure that the child’s identity is properly logged at the Local Civil Registry office (LCR). It is critical because birth registration is the only legal way for a child to get a birth certificate.
Birth certificates are important as it is the only way to authenticate one’s identity and nationality, to gain access to health care and social services, access to education, access to inherit property, prevent child exploitation, access to legal work, for driver’s license, passport, to open bank account, and register to vote. Without a birth certificate, children are unable to prove their age, their lineage, their nationality, and other important personal details.
However, having a birth certificate is not enough. It is equally important to make sure that all the details in a person’s birth certificate are correct, accurate, and true. Errors and inconsistencies in the birth certificate entries could cause problems for the birth certificate owner in the future. From as simple as enrolling in school, to as complex as getting a passport or asserting legal rights, a person with an erroneous birth certificate may find himself in a difficult position to assert his rights.
To ensure accuracy on your child’s birth certificate, consider these helpful guidelines and tips. If you have already discovered errors on your PSA birth certificate, be sure to consult our previous blogs for comprehensive advice on addressing these issues.
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Verify information on the spot
Whether you give birth in a hospital or at home with the assistance of a midwife, it is essential to verify the information on the Certificate of Live Birth form immediately after it has been filled out. Request that all the details are double-checked for accuracy, including the names of parents, the child’s name, date and time of birth, and other pertinent information. If any discrepancies or errors are spotted, address these right away.
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Provide accurate information
The responsibility for providing accurate information rests with the parents or guardians. When filling out the form, make sure to provide your full legal names, including any middle names or suffixes. Be clear and consistent with the child’s name, as this will be the official name used in legal documents throughout their life. Double-check the date and time of birth as well as the place of birth, ensuring that they align with the actual events.
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Be mindful of spellings.
Names should be spelled accurately to avoid future complications. This is especially crucial in the Philippines, where slight variations in spelling or pronunciation can lead to confusion. Confirm the correct spelling and pronunciation of both the parents’ names and the child’s name before signing the certificate.
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Verify gender.
Ensure that the gender recorded on the birth certificate is correct. Mistakes in this area can have significant legal and personal consequences. If you have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to raise them with the attending personnel or midwife.
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Check for completeness.
Make sure that all sections of the Certificate of Live Birth form are filled out completely. Missing information or blank spaces can lead to confusion or legal issues in the future. It is better to take a few extra minutes to fill out the form thoroughly than to leave any section incomplete.
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Confirm the registration.
After reviewing and signing the Certificate of Live Birth, ask for a copy or acknowledgment of the registration. This serves as evidence that the birth has been officially recorded, and it allows you to verify the information once again.
A child’s Certificate of Live Birth is a vital document that serves as proof of their identity and citizenship. To prevent errors on this document, it is crucial for parents to actively participate in the registration process, verify the information for accuracy, and seek help if needed. In essence, obtaining a birth certificate and verifying its accuracy are fundamental in safeguarding your child's identity and future. These steps play a crucial role in protecting your child from potential challenges and hardships as they grow older. By taking these actions, you are not only fulfilling a legal requirement but also securing your child's rightful place in society.
