House Committee Chair Advocates for Creation of National Forensic Service Amid Rising Crimes

MANILA: Addressing an increase in hazing, cybercrime, rape, and illegal drug cases, the chairperson of the House Committee on Civil Service and Professional Regulation is advocating for the establishment of a National Forensic Service (NFS).

According to a new release by the Philippines News Agency, Bohol 3rd District Rep. Alexie Tutor stated on Monday that the proposed NFS should be under the jurisdiction of the Department of Science and Technology. This would ensure the NFS’s professional independence and scientific objectivity. Rep. Tutor also pressed for a professional law on forensics, stating that consultations should include local and international experts from countries such as Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Australia, and the United States.

Rep. Tutor suggested that educational institutions, like the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), and various departments of UP Manila and Dilima should begin enhancing the country’s forensic capabilities. She indicated that this initiative could potentially be funded by the proposed 2024 budget if the University of the Philippines agrees to it. Tutor envisions a forensic profession with at least three specialized areas: medical pathology, financial forensics, and digital forensics.