Query: Do individuals need to pay for corrections made to a Certificate of No Marriage Record (CENOMAR)?

In the Philippines, a CENOMAR (Certificate of No Marriage Record) is issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) to certify that a person has not been legally married. It is a crucial document, especially for those planning to marry, as it is required to obtain a marriage license. When errors are discovered in a CENOMAR, such as incorrect personal information due to clerical mistakes, corrections must be made to ensure the accuracy of legal documents.

Correction Process and Fees:

Initiating Correction: To correct a CENOMAR, the individual must file a request at the local Civil Registrar where the birth or marriage was registered, or directly with the PSA if the correction pertains to clerical errors.
Types of Corrections: Simple errors, such as misspellings or incorrect dates, typically fall under "clerical" or "typographical errors" and can be corrected by filing a petition under RA 9048 (Clerical Error Law).
Fees Involved: There are administrative fees associated with the correction process. These fees cover the cost of filing, processing, and issuing the corrected document. The exact fee may vary depending on the municipality and the nature of the error but generally includes a petition fee and additional costs for the new CENOMAR issuance.
Documentation Required: Applicants must provide supporting documents to validate the need for correction, which may include birth certificates, baptismal certificates, or other government-issued IDs that correctly reflect the individual's personal details.

Legal Considerations:

Verification of Errors: It is essential for individuals to thoroughly check their CENOMAR and other related documents for accuracy to avoid future legal complications, especially when used in legal proceedings like marriage.
Legal Advice: Consulting with a legal professional or the local civil registrar can provide guidance through the correction process to ensure compliance with all legal requirements and proper filing of petitions.

Conclusion:

Yes, correcting a CENOMAR in the Philippines requires payment of certain fees. These fees are necessary to cover the administrative costs of processing the corrections and reissuing the document. Individuals are advised to prepare the necessary documents and funds to facilitate a smooth correction process, ensuring that their legal records are accurate and up-to-date. This not only aids in personal transactions but also aligns with the legal standards set by the Philippine government for document integrity.