Science can provide reliable reinforcement to lawmen’s crime busting mission.

Modern science-based criminal investigation methods will be 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 starts 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 will cover 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 aims 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 to be 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 is in cooperation with the UP-NSRI, and the Department of Interior and Local Government.

For related details, please call DOST National Biotechnology Week secretariat at (02) 837-7522 and 837-7516. [S&T Media Service]