Law Summary

Recognition of Filipino Citizenship

This provision outlines the legal framework for recognizing a child as a Filipino citizen based on parentage.

• Legal Principle: A child born to a Filipino parent is eligible for recognition as a Filipino citizen.
• Key Definition: "Filipino parent" refers to a biological parent who holds Filipino citizenship.

Requirements for Recognition

The following documents must be submitted to the Commissioner for the recognition process:

1. Petition:

   • A letter-request made under oath by the Filipino parent or a legally appointed guardian.
   • If the child is 18 years old or older, he/she must submit the request independently.
   • In absence of parents or a judicially appointed guardian, a representative may file the petition upon proper authorization via power of attorney.

2. Documents Required:

   • Authenticated Birth Certificate of the child.
   • Birth Certificate of the Filipino parent.
   • Affidavit of Citizenship from the Filipino parent affirming their citizenship at the time of the child's birth.
   • Photocopies of the child’s passport (if available).
   • Photocopies of the Filipino parent's passport (if available).
   • Additional proof of the Filipino parent's citizenship, excluding passports.

• Important Note: Documents issued by foreign governments must be authenticated by the Philippine Consulate or Embassy. Any non-English or non-Filipino documents must be translated and sealed by the appropriate foreign embassy to be admissible.

Processing and Confirmation

• The Bureau shall send an official copy of the Order of Recognition to the Department of Justice within 72 days of the approval date for confirmation.
• An Identification Certificate will not be issued until after the Secretary of Justice confirms the order.
• Any issued Identification Certificate must clearly indicate the confirmation date by the Secretary of Justice.

Implementation Timeline

• This law instruction takes effect 15 days after its publication and filing with the University of the Philippines Law Center.

Key Takeaways

• Children born to Filipino parents may be recognized as Filipino citizens by submitting specific documents to the Commissioner.
• Essential documentation includes birth certificates, affidavits, and proof of citizenship.
• The process involves confirmation from the Department of Justice, with specific timelines for document submission and processing.
• Non-compliance with document authenticity and translation requirements may result in inadmissibility of submissions.