MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The opening of the Civil Registry System (CRS) Outlet in Lanao del Sur brings civil registration services closer to its residents and nearby areas. This long-awaited facility aims to address the residents’ logistical challenges in securing vital documents such as birth, marriage, and death certificates.
During the launch, Engr. Akan G. Tula, OIC Regional Director of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in the Bangsamoro region, emphasized the outlet’s role in improving access to civil registration services.
“This outlet represents a milestone in our collective efforts to make civil registration services efficient and accessible. For years, residents coped with long and expensive trips just to secure necessary documents. Now, they no longer have to endure such hardships,” he said.
Tula explained that Marawi City was selected as the location for the outlet due to its central position in the province, enabling it to serve both Marawi City and neighboring municipalities.
He also pointed out that the CRS outlet would reduce the need for residents to travel to distant cities like Iligan or Cotabato, which often involved high transportation costs.
“Pag galing ka ng Bayang, or galing ka ng Kapatagan, pupunta ka pa ng Iligan, o bababa ka pa ng as far as Cagayan de Oro, or bababa ka pa ng as far as Cotabato City. It really required pamasahe papunta ng Iligan,” he added.
Tula further noted that establishing CRS outlets is part of PSA’s ongoing effort to improve civil registration services and promote inclusivity.
“Civil registration is the backbone of governance, ensuring that every birth, marriage, and death is properly recorded, allowing individuals to access their rights and opportunities. With this facility, we streamline the process and foster inclusivity,” he said.
Mohammadali R. Alonto, OIC-Chief Statistical Specialist of PSA Lanao del Sur, expressed his appreciation for the efforts behind the CRS outlet.
“The opening of this Civil Registration System outlet in Lanao del Sur and Marawi City is more than just completing a physical structure. It stands as a powerful symbol of accessibility, efficiency, and inclusivity in civil registration services,” he said.
He also noted that the launch coincides with Civil Registration Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of civil documents in securing identity, rights, and opportunities.
“What better way to honor this month than by bringing these essential services closer to the people, ensuring that vital records like birth, marriage, and death certificates are now easily accessible to our communities,” Alonto said. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
