CENOMAR vs Advisory on Marriage: Spotting the Real Red Flag in an Engagement

There's quite the buzz about a woman's post online regarding her recent engagement. In a twist of modern romance, she's turned to the internet to weigh in on the engagement ring her fiance bought through a shopping app. Not only did she get to see how much (or less) the ring costs (thanks to that famous free delivery deal), but she's now questioning whether she ought to be disappointed by the ring's value. Despite saying 'yes' to her now fiance, her less-than-enthused demeanor has prompted her to seek the public's opinion on whether she should feel slighted by the choice. 

Opinions are flying in all directions on this matter. Some argue that she is in the wrong for feeling this way, asserting that after eight years of dating, she should have set her expectations accordingly, considering her boyfriend's financial situation. On the flip side, others suggest that she should recognize her own value. If she believes the engagement ring is lackluster, perhaps she should reconsider tying the knot with someone who underestimated her expectations. Then there's a faction emphasizing that the cost of the ring is inconsequential -- what matters is that there's a ring at all. They advocate shifting the focus to building a life together, addressing the practicalities of marriage, and planning for the future, especially if they intend to start a family. 

Where do you stand on this debate?

We think that it is crucial for both parties to confirm their legal freedom to marry. While the allure of an engagement ring and the social media hullabaloo that comes with making the engagement official can be exhilarating, imagine the scenario where, after all the excitement, it is revealed that one of them is not actually legally free to marry. Now THAT is a problem far more disturbing than an engagement ring that failed to meet the expectations of a girlfriend. 

Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR)

PSA's description of the CENOMAR is simple, easy to understand, and straightforward: it is simply what its name implies - a certification issued by the PSA stating that a person  has not contracted any  marriage. It is also otherwise known as a Certificate of Singleness.

If you were never married, you can request a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR). The PSA processes this certificate by thoroughly checking their records under your name to confirm your single status. However, if you were previously married, you will receive an Advisory on Marriage instead. This document highlights your marriage record(s), specifying when and to whom you were married. If you have been married multiple times, all instances will be detailed on the Advisory on Marriage. It is important to note that this advisory differs from the PSA Marriage Certificate. 

Couples usually need a CENOMAR when applying for their marriage license. It is important to note that unlike other PSA certificates (birth, marriage, death), CENOMARs come with an expiry date. Surprising, right? Many city and municipal halls, when marriage license applications take place, typically ask for a CENOMAR that is not older than six months when you submit it. If it is older, you will likely need to get a fresh copy to meet the requirements for your marriage license application.

How to get a copy of a CENOMAR

The simplest and most convenient way to secure a copy of your CENOMAR is by placing an online order at PSAHelpline.ph. We call it simplest because the entire process happens online and takes less than 10 minutes. Once you have made your payment, expect your PSA CENOMAR to land at your doorstep in 3 to 4 working days for Metro Manila addresses and 3 to 8 working days for provincial ones. For security, the document is exclusively handed to the owner or an authorized requester, ensuring the confidentiality of personal information. The cost of a CENOMAR is Php 420, covering processing and delivery fees.

Remember, when it comes to CENOMAR orders, you can only request your own -- not your future spouse's. Even if you have their permission or an authorization letter, PSAHelpline.ph sticks to the rules of the Data Privacy Act of 2012. So, no sneaky moves allowed! Trying to secretly snag your partner's CENOMAR might raise eyebrows, and hey, isn't trust the foundation of any solid relationship? (Or are you still really concerned about the engagement ring?)

The whole engagement ordeal -- its quality, price, and the whole shebang -- is just the tiny tip of the giant iceberg called marriage. It is not wrong to dream of a special engagement, but it is way smarter to make sure the one popping the question (or the one receiving it) is legally free to take the plunge. If, by chance, one of you happens to be hitched to someone else, trust me, the complications and heartaches in your marriage will make a P299 engagement ring issue seem like a walk in the park.

Priorities, right?