PNP acquires DNA lab for solving crime

MANILA, Philippines—Seeing the increasing importance of DNA evidence in crime investigation, the Philippine National Police has established a new facility specializing in forensic analysis of human genetic material such as may be found in strands of hair.

The PNP Crime Laboratory Group opened to the public on Monday its newest establishment, the DNA Investigative and Research Center (DIRC), highlighting the celebration of the unit’s 67th founding anniversary.

The DIRC “will assist Crime Laboratory Technical Divisions and other investigative agencies in the identification of a person (using scientific methods) as well as a modern means of seeking justice and truth utilizing limited amounts of specimen obtained,” PNP spokesperson Senior Supt. Generoso Cerbo Jr. said.

In a statement, Cerbo said the DNA facility was part of the CLG’s relentless effort to enhance its capabilities through the procurement of forensic equipment and facilities, and help PNP forensic experts perform their jobs more efficiently and effectively.

The Crime Lab Group director, Chief Supt. Lorlie N. Arroyo, said the DIRC would provide forensic analysis of DNA material and fingerprinting to match the suspects of a certain crime with biological samples recovered at the crime scene.

Arroyo said it would be particularly helpful in rape cases and other sexual crimes when the perpetrators would tend to leave behind DNA material.

The official said DNA analysis could also help establish the identity of the bodies of crime victims, when standard means of identification prove unhelpful.

“DIRC will also help in the identification of victims of mass disasters, establish paternity or maternity in child custody conflicts and inheritance lawsuits to link consanguinity,” Cerbo said.

He added that the DIRC would provide training and lectures to PNP personnel in properly obtaining and handling evidence, as well as correct procedures in the chain of custody.

“Moreover, the DIRC creates a criminal database for convicted persons to serve as identification for those who were recently involved in such criminal activities,” Cerbo said.