How to Correct a Birth Certificate in the Philippines

Simplified Query: "Paano ko maaayos ang birth certificate ko?"

Correcting errors on a birth certificate in the Philippines involves legal procedures that can either be administrative or judicial, depending on the type of correction needed.

Administrative Correction

Administrative correction is simpler and quicker, governed by Republic Act 9048. It includes:

1. Correction of Clerical or Typographical Errors

This process corrects errors such as misspellings, interchanged names, or incorrect entries. The requirements are:

1. Certified electronic copy of the birth certificate containing the error.
2. Supporting documents such as a baptismal certificate, voter's affidavit, or employment record【7†source】【10†source】.
3. Affidavit for the correction.

The process involves filing the correction petition at the Local Civil Registrar (LCR) where the birth is registered, or the place of residence if it's impractical to attend in person where the birth is registered. The filing fee is PHP 1,000【5†source】【8†source】.

2. Change of First Name or Nickname

If you need to change your first name or nickname, the requirements are:

1. Petition for change of name, notarized.
2. PSA birth certificate.
3. NBI clearance.
4. Police clearance.
5. Affidavit of non-employment or employment certificate.
6. Baptismal certificate【7†source】.

3. Supplemental Report for Missing or Blank Entries

For missing names, a supplemental report is filed. The requirements include an affidavit and supporting documents such as GSIS/SSS records or NBI clearance. The filing fee is approximately PHP 1,000 or less【8†source】.

Judicial Correction

Judicial correction is needed for substantial errors or changes such as:

1. Changing the surname.
2. Correcting substantial errors【11†source】.

The requirements are:

1. Petition for judicial correction, filed in the Regional Trial Court (RTC).
2. Supporting documents such as birth certificate, NBI clearance, and school records【11†source】.
3. Legal representation may be necessary.

Conclusion

Correcting a birth certificate in the Philippines depends on the type of error or change needed. Administrative correction is quicker and suitable for minor errors, while judicial correction is for substantial changes. It's important to gather all necessary documents and follow the appropriate legal process【12†source】.