As part of its commitment to facilitate registration of indigenous people, the Civil Registrar’s Office conducted a series of orientation on the significance of civil registration with Sama Badjaos as participants.

City Civil Registrar Atty. Eric Elias said the orientation, held in collaboration with the Community Family Services International (CFSI), City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), also covered documentation that included the process necessary for the registration of birth.

The participants included Sama Badjaos from 3 target areas: Rio Hondo, Kasanyangan and Arena Blanco. The event was held June 18-26.

Meanwhile, the CFSI, through its Sama Badjao Capacity Strengthening Project, turned over to Atty. Elias over 300 information sheets and family list for verification and pre-evaluation of the concerned individuals for possible registration of birth.

On the other hand, the CRO visits far flung barangays in a bid to expand its mandate to accept, file, keep and preserve all registrable documents and judicial decres/ legal documents affecting the civil status of persons.

Last June 3, CRO personnel processed 147 applications for delayed registration of birth in barangay Buenavista while last June 15, the team processed 103 applications for marriage license in barangay Curuan.

Elias said his office reaches out to the different barangays and sectors to intensify civil registration. (Sheila Covarrubias)