The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Pangasinan continues its dedicated efforts to implement the Birth Registration Assistance Project (BRAP), an initiative aimed at improving civil registration in marginalized communities across the province. Specifically targeting Indigenous Peoples (IP), Muslim Filipinos, and the poorest sectors, BRAP seeks to address the barriers preventing these groups from obtaining official birth registrations, as outlined in Memorandum Circular 2022-15.

This project plays a key role in promoting inclusive governance by ensuring vulnerable groups can obtain important documents. It gives them access to social services, legal recognition, and the protection of their rights. BRAP offers a free and easy way for late registrants to register, removing the financial and logistical challenges that have historically prevented these communities from registering their births.

As of January 1, 2025, a total of 30,806 individuals have applied for the Birth Registration Assistance Project (BRAP) in Pangasinan. Of these applicants, 24,553 were found to be verified negative, while 6,253 already have birth records in the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) system. Furthermore, 6,599 individuals have been successfully registered in Pangasinan, including 692 who applied for Out-of-Town Registration. This reflects the program’s broad reach and its capacity to assist individuals from outside their localities, ensuring that no one is left behind in securing vital documentation.

In the 4th quarter of 2024, 245 individuals were newly registered under the BRAP. Additionally, a total of 5,903 Certificates of Live Birth (COLBs) in Security Paper (SECPA) were distributed to various cities and municipalities within Pangasinan. These will be presented to BRAP beneficiaries, providing them with their official birth certificates. This important step not only ensures their legal recognition but also guarantees access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and government benefits.

The Birth Registration Assistance Program (BRAP) will continue into 2025, helping unregistered Filipinos nationwide. A collaboration between the Local Government Units (LGUs) in Pangasinan, the Local Civil Registry Offices (LCROs), and the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) - Pangasinan, the program will use mobile registration units to visit barangays, particularly in remote areas. The initiative aims to increase registration rates and highlight the importance of having an official birth certificate to access government services, education, and other opportunities.

For further information, you may contact the Pangasinan Provincial Statistical Office with telephone numbers (075) 517-4438 and 633-8075, and email address pangasinan@psa.gov.ph.

EDGAR M. NORBERTE
Chief Statistical Specialist
PSO Pangasinan