The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) - Cotabato Province officially launched the 35th Civil Registration Month (CRM) with an opening ceremony on February 6, 2025, at Brookside Hotel, Kidapawan City, Cotabato. This year’s theme, “Building a Resilient, Agile, and Future-Fit Civil Registration and Vital Statistics System,” highlights the importance of an adaptive and efficient civil registration system in ensuring accurate and accessible records for all citizens. 

The Civil Registration Month is an annual observance held every February, following Proclamation No. 682, which was issued by former President Corazon C. Aquino. This nationwide initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of civil registration and remind citizens of their duty to register significant life events, such as births, deaths, and marriages. It also emphasizes the legal, administrative, and statistical value of civil registry documents in various aspects of life, from securing government benefits to legal identity verification. 

The opening ceremony gathered key stakeholders, including Local Civil Registry personnel, Municipal and City Civil Registrars, Solemnizing Officers and representatives from several National Line Agencies, such as, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG), PhilHealth, Social Security System (SSS), and Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). 

The event commenced with an Opening Remarks delivered by Officer-in-Charge Chief Statistical Specialist (OIC–CSS) Ms. Norhayyah A. Tula. This was followed by a virtual message from Atty. Maqtahar L. Manulon, CESO V, Regional Director of PSA RSSO XII, and a message from Ms. Marilou Q. Fronda, PhD, Municipal Civil Registrar of Libungan, represented the Cotabato Province Civil Registrars' Association (CPCREA). 

A key highlight of the program was a presentation on Civil Registration and Vital Statistics Updates by Statistical Specialist II Ms. Sally Fe C. Dato-on. This session provided valuable insights into the state of civil registration in the region, particularly focusing on Cotabato Province. The discussion covered essential statistics and trends, emphasizing the importance of accurate data collection for policymaking and governance.

To honor the efforts of participants, certificates of participation were awarded to attendees. Special awards were also given in recognition of outstanding contributions, "Most Supportive LCRO in PSA’s Initiative in Civil Registration (BRAP)" – Awarded to the Local Civil Registry Office (LCRO) of Arakan for their commitment to PSA's programs. “Early Bird Award" – Presented to the LCRO of Kidapawan for arriving ahead of schedule. Most Decorative Vehicle Award" – Also awarded to the LCRO of Kidapawan, whose creatively designed vehicle stood out during the motorcade.

The event concluded with Closing Remarks from Senior Statistical Specialist Edna A. Alagano, expressing appreciation for the participants' dedication and enthusiasm. The opening ceremony set the tone for a month-long celebration of civil registration awareness, ensuring that more people understand the significance of registering life events for a well-documented and legally recognized society. 

Overall, the event was a great success, fostering collaboration among stakeholders and reinforcing the commitment to a more resilient and efficient civil registration system in Cotabato Province.