Dumaguete: The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in Negros Oriental is appealing to the public, especially Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries, to utilize online services following a sudden surge in walk-in transactions.
According to Philippines News Agency, Engr. Ariel Fortuito, PSA-Negros Oriental Chief Statistical Specialist, stated that hundreds of individuals have swarmed their main and branch offices since last week, with many arriving as early as 4 a.m. to secure birth certificates and register for the national identification program. These documents are crucial for the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) 4Ps validation process.
Fortuito expressed surprise at the influx of people at their offices and noted, "We were surprised when these people flocked to our offices. We limit our transactions to only 100 individuals each day and prioritize those who have registered online for an appointment." Beneficiaries from remote areas, such as Jimalalud, reported being advised to travel to Dumaguete due to unavailable local registration services. However, Fortuito clarified that the PSA does not issue priority numbers for walk-ins and urged the public to consider decentralized options.
To prevent unnecessary travel and expenses, Fortuito emphasized the importance of alternative channels for obtaining documents and ID registration, such as online appointments through the PSA portal, transacting with local civil registrars, and utilizing PhilSys Mobile Registration for scheduled Philippine Identification System dates in various towns and cities.
Families arriving with young children have faced the disappointment of being turned away without scheduled appointments. Fortuito expressed the need for a coordinated solution between the agencies to avoid beneficiaries wasting time and money on unproductive trips.
John Paul Ocate, DSWD-Negros Island Region public information officer, revealed that regional directors from both the PSA and DSWD are currently in discussions to resolve the coordination issues concerning the registration of new 4Ps beneficiaries.
