Seventy-six children from Lutong, Morobuan, Jordan, were enrolled in the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) during the launch of the Rehistro Bulilit program on August 29, 2024, led by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Guimaras Provincial Statistical Office.
“Of the 76 children, 64 are aged 1 to 4, while the other 12 registrants are 5 years old,” said Supervising Statistical Specialist Vicente G. Geonanga.
The program followed the directive of PSA Undersecretary Claire Dennis S. Mapa, Ph.D., National Statistician and Civil Registrar General, to expand the registration of Filipino children while continuing outreach efforts to communities nationwide.
According to Geonanga, registering children aged 1-4 is part of PSA’s mission to make the National ID system inclusive.
Additionally, NS Mapa instructed the PSA to continue creating opportunities for National ID registration through initiatives like Rehistro Bulilit, with support from local government units and other stakeholders.
To help children feel comfortable during the event, the PhilSys team organized games with prizes.
“Short films for kids were compiled and played, and we also prepared a coloring station, photo booth, grooming area, and nail cleaning with polishing to entertain the children throughout the program,” Geonanga said.
“Children enjoyed the games and contests, and each registered child received tokens. Parents were also excited about the raffles,” he added.
The PSA Guimaras coordinated with barangay officials of Morobuan, Day Care Workers, and the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office to ensure the event ran smoothly.
Each child’s National ID includes a permanent identification number linked to the parent or guardian present during the registration.
“This ensures that the child’s identity is securely connected to a responsible adult for future verification and updates,” Geonanga said.
He explained that the child’s demographic information is validated, and a front-facing photograph is taken during registration. While only basic demographic data and a photo are collected at first, full biometric data, including fingerprints, iris scans, and an updated photo, will be gathered when the child turns five.
“This process allows for more accurate identification as the child grows,” Geonanga said.
To successfully register a child, the following documents are required:
- Original Birth Certificate – to verify the child’s identity and details.
- Parent’s National ID – to validate and link the child’s data.
- Authorization from the Parent (if applicable) – if a guardian is registering the child, an authorization letter from the parent is required.
“This ensures proper authentication and connection to the correct family member or guardian, making it easier to update the child’s information in the future,” Geonanga said.
Meanwhile, the PSA Guimaras continues to reach out to children aged 1-4 through mobile registration initiatives, including barangay registration, house-to-house efforts, PhilSys on wheels, and plaza-style setups.
“These efforts are aimed at registering unlisted Guimarasnons, particularly those in far-flung areas,” Geonanga said.
