Manila: Japan has donated seven mobile birth registration vehicles and advocacy materials to the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) to enhance digital birth registration initiatives for populations at risk of statelessness in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Japanese Minister for Economic Affairs Naobumi Yokota and MSSD Minister Raissa Jajurie led the ceremonial turnover of these resources, which are part of an ongoing project in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, Japan had previously allocated 858 million Japanese yen, approximately USD5.5 million, to support 'The Project for Promoting Digital Birth Registration of Populations at Risk of Statelessness in BARMM.' This project is being executed by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) over a 30-month period. The project is designed to improve birth registration for Sama Bajaus, children affected by forced displacement, and former combatants and their families. It is anticipated that at least 130,000 unregistered individuals will benefit directly from the project, with up to 800,000 more benefiting indirectly over the next decade.
During the ceremony, officials transferred seven mobile birth registration caravan vehicles to the MSSD to aid outreach efforts in remote communities. Advocacy kits were also distributed to youth networks from Lanao del Sur, who will spearhead birth registration awareness campaigns in their areas.
As the Philippines and Japan approach the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2026, Yokota reaffirmed Japan's dedication to supporting inclusive development in the Bangsamoro region. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in ensuring that no individual in the Bangsamoro is left behind in the pursuit of peace and progress.
The ceremony underscored the ongoing cooperation among the Philippine government, BARMM ministries, and international partners in enhancing civil registration systems and ensuring that vulnerable populations gain legal identity and access to essential services.
