Science can provide reliable reinforcement to lawmen’s crime busting mission. Modern science-based criminal investigation methods was introduced to selected police officers through a DNA forensics training set Nov. 27 at the University of the Philippines--National Science Research Institute in Diliman.

 The training is part of the National Biotechnology Week celebration that started November 24 jointly organized by the Philippine Council for Advanced Science and Technology Research and Development, an agency of the Department of Science and Technology. It is part of PCASTRD’s education and advocacy program on the advantages of DNA forensics  technology to law enforcement, and a follow-up from the series of education campaigns that  started in 2006.

 The training covered practical exercises on DNA forensics concepts and techniques, important insights on proper handling and collection of DNA evidences, and scene of the crime documentation that are a vital procedure in criminal investigation.  It also aimed to provide awareness and knowledge on the use and application of DNA  forensics technology in court cases among prosecution and defense lawyers, judges, and the police.

 Topics discussed include DNA forensics technology overview, DNA testing and analysis, limitations of DNA evidences, legal implications of DNA collection or gathering in crime scenes, and crime scene collection principles with focus on biological sampling. The training was in cooperation with the UP-NSRI and the Department of Interior and Local Government.