Gov’t eyeing forensic institute to probe crimes, maritime mishaps, calamities

MANILA, Philippines — The government is planning to establish a forensic institute for a science-based investigation for criminal cases, maritime mishaps, and natural calamities, Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Raul Vasquez said on Saturday.

The plan is part of the three pledges of Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin when he attended the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

“Iyong Forensic Institute na ito (This forensic institute) is to have a science-based investigation and criminal prosecution. And more importantly, it will also help in maritime disaster and natural calamities etcetera,” said Vasquez in the Saturday News Forum.

Vasquez also shared that there are already three ambassadors who are supporting the plan.

“Mayroon na po kaming nakikitang areas kung saan gagawin iyong institute na iyan (We are considering some areas where the institute will be built) and we are so proud to say na there are at least three countries, whose ambassadors already affirmed their commitment to help us — Australia, UK (United Kingdom) and Norway, if I am not mistaken,” he added.

Forensic science uses DNA or Deoxyribonucleic Acid in examining biological samples to identify crime victims or suspects.

In 2012, the Philippine National Police established the DNA Investigative and Research Center that specializes in forensic analysis of human genetic materials. 

The DOJ signed a declaration of cooperation with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in July where it designated the University of the Philippines Manila as a facility where deceased persons deprived of liberty can undergo autopsies and death investigations. DOJ will facilitate the immediate transfer of the remains for autopsy.

 Aside from science-based investigations on crimes, the forensic institute also aims to probe into natural calamities and maritime disasters. 

Recently, three vessels successively figured in mishaps off Bataan.

In an ambush interview on Friday, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla hinted that there are “sufficient findings” indicating that the three mishaps may be interconnected.