Changing a Misspelled Surname: Costs and Process in the Philippines

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Query: How much does it cost to change a surname because it is misspelled in the Philippines?

In the Philippines, the process for correcting a misspelled surname involves filing a petition for correction of entry under Republic Act No. 9048. This law allows the city or municipal civil registrar or the consul general to correct clerical or typographical errors in civil registry documents without the need for a judicial order.

Filing the Petition

To initiate the process, the petitioner must file a petition for correction of entry with the local civil registry office of the city or municipality where the birth record is kept. The petition should be duly notarized and should include the following:

1. Affidavit – The petitioner should provide a sworn statement detailing the nature of the error and the correct entry.
2. Supporting Documents – Documents such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or any other relevant identification that can substantiate the correct spelling of the surname.
3. Payment – There is a filing fee, which varies by locality but generally ranges from PHP 500 to PHP 1,000. Additionally, there may be miscellaneous fees for publication or notarization.

Processing Time and Requirements

The processing time for the correction can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to a few months. During this time, the petition will be reviewed, and in most cases, it will also be published in a newspaper of general circulation. The cost of publication can range from PHP 1,000 to PHP 3,000, depending on the publication chosen.

Approval and Release

Once the correction is approved, the petitioner will receive a certificate of finality, and the corrected birth certificate can be issued. The petitioner may need to pay additional fees for the issuance of the corrected document, which can range from PHP 50 to PHP 200 per copy.

Summary of Costs

In summary, the typical costs involved in changing a misspelled surname in the Philippines include:

1. Filing Fee: PHP 500 to PHP 1,000
2. Publication Fee: PHP 1,000 to PHP 3,000
3. Issuance of Corrected Document: PHP 50 to PHP 200 per copy

These costs are subject to change and may vary depending on the local government unit or publication chosen. It is advisable to consult with the local civil registry office for the most accurate information.