In photos: OIC-DNS Clemente S. Manaog, MNSA, together with the PSA BARMM Officials and LGU Officials of Lanao del Sur, during the ribbon cutting of the Civil Registry System Marawi City Outlet

26 February 2025, Marawi City, Lanao del Sur — The Philippine Statistics Authority - Regional Statistical Services Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PSA RSSO BARMM), led by OIC Regional Director Engr. Akan G. Tula, together with PSA Lanao del Sur OIC Chief Statistical Specialist (CSS) Mr. Mohammadali R. Alonto, officially launched the Civil Registry System (CRS) Marawi City Outlet at the Provincial Statistical Office in Lanao del Sur, Marawi City on 26 February 2025. The outlet is located on the Ground Floor of the PSA Lanao del Sur Provincial Office, Rima Building, National Highway, Barangay Datu Saber, Marawi City.

The launching and ribbon-cutting event was graced by OIC Deputy National Statistician Director Clemente S. Manaog, MNSA, and supported by Hon. Datu Mamintal "Bombit" Alonto Adiong Jr., Provincial Governor of Lanao del Sur, represented by Planning Development Officer II Ms. Marjorie Ann M. Sani. Other notable attendees included City Mayor of Marawi Atty. Majul U. Gandamra, represented by Planning Management Officer Engr. Sadick Mohammad; Vice Mayor of Piagapo Hon. Haneeya Manalocon-Sumandar; and BARMM-Regional Operation Leader of Unisys Managed Services Corporation, Mr. Eden-Hallel Liston.

Officials from PSA RSSO BARMM, including Dr. Noronisa D. Macadadaya, OIC-Chief Administrative Officer of the Civil Registration and Administrative Support Division (CRASD), and Mr. Edward Donald F. Eloja of the Statistical Operation and Coordination Division (SOCD), represented by Senior Statistical Specialist Ms. Aquessa L. Macud, were also in attendance. Chief Statistical Specialists from neighboring provinces, Mr. Naldo G. Pendaliday (Maguindanao) and Mr. Osler M. Mejares (Lanao del Norte), were likewise present.

OIC-Regional Director Engr. Akan G. Tula expressed pride in inaugurating the CRS Outlet, highlighting it as a significant step toward more efficient and accessible civil registration services. He emphasized the importance of civil registration in governance, ensuring vital events such as births, marriages, and deaths are properly recorded to uphold individual rights. He commended the PSA-Provincial Office, local government, and stakeholders for their efforts, noting that the new facility represents inclusivity, equity, and good governance by bringing public services closer to the people.

OIC-DNS Clemente S. Manaog, MNSA, reflected on the past challenges of obtaining civil registry documents, which often required traveling to Manila. This process incurred significant costs, wasted time, and lost opportunities. He praised the government's efforts to simplify and make the process more affordable while maintaining the integrity and reliability of the documents.

PDO II Marjorie Ann M. Sani, representing the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur, expressed her gratitude for the CRS Outlet, noting it addresses long-standing challenges in securing civil registry documents. The new outlet eliminates the need for long travel and bureaucratic hurdles, providing easier access to these essential services.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), as the agency mandated by Republic Act No. 10625 which declared the years 2015 to 2024 as Civil Registration and Vital Statistics Decade (CRVS).

The outlet in Marawi City, the second provincial CRS outlet in BARMM, was established under the CRS-ITP2 and will serve clients across the province. Residents can now obtain vital documents such as birth, marriage, certificate of no marriage, and death certificates on the same day of their request without service fees. This facility reduces costs, expedites processing, and improves access for the people of Lanao del Sur.

Coinciding with the 35th Civil Registration Month celebration, it themed "Building a Resilient, Agile, Future-Fit Civil Registration and Vital Statistics System," the launching of the CRS outlet serves as a catalyst for future projects and programs that will further benefit the province.

Approved for Release:

ENGR. AKAN G TULA

OIC-Regional Director