Query: Is there a fee involved in correcting a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) in the Philippines?

A Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) is an official document issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) that certifies a person has not been legally married. Sometimes, discrepancies or errors may occur in the data recorded on a CENOMAR, such as misspellings or incorrect personal details. Correcting these errors is crucial for ensuring the accuracy of legal documents and for the validity of future civil registrations, including marriage.

Procedure for Correction:

Identification of Errors: The first step is to review the CENOMAR and identify any inaccuracies.
Filing for Correction: Corrections are typically filed at the local civil registry office where your records are kept. If the error originated from entries in birth certificates or other supporting documents, these will also need to be corrected simultaneously.
Documentation: You will need to provide supporting documents that justify the correction. This might include birth certificates, baptismal certificates, or other official documents that prove the correct information.
Fees: Yes, there is usually a fee associated with filing a correction in the civil registry. The fee varies depending on the nature of the correction and the municipality. It covers the cost of processing the correction and issuing a new CENOMAR.

Legal Basis:

The correction of entries in the Philippine civil registry is governed by Republic Act No. 9048, which authorizes the city or municipal civil registrar or the consul general to correct a clerical or typographical error in an entry and change of first name or nickname in the civil register without needing a judicial order.

Implications of Corrections:

Validity: Correcting errors in your CENOMAR ensures that when you apply for a marriage license, there are no discrepancies that could affect the legality of your marriage.
Time Frame: The process can take several weeks to months, depending on the complexity of the error and the efficiency of the local civil registry office.

Conclusion: For those encountering errors on their CENOMAR, it is important to initiate corrections promptly to avoid complications in legal and civil matters. The fee for correction, while potentially inconvenient, is necessary for the processing and reissuance of accurate official documents. It's advisable to contact the local civil registry office directly to obtain the specific details regarding the required documents, the exact fee, and the expected time frame for the correction process. This proactive approach ensures that all personal records are accurate and legally compliant.