The Philippine justice system received a major boost with Japan’s donation of forensic equipment to the University of the Philippines Manila (UPM), aimed at improving investigations into custodial deaths.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said the donation, facilitated by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), reflects a moral and humanitarian commitment aligned with President Marcos Jr.’s governance agenda of transparency and human dignity.
The equipment supports the development of the National Forensics Institute (NFI), a global pledge made by the Philippines in 2023, and will allow for independent forensic examinations of inmates’ remains from Bureau of Corrections facilities.
Japanese Ambassador Kazuya Endo, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, and UPM officials emphasized the donation’s role in strengthening forensic capabilities and upholding justice.
The NFI Technical Working Group, co-chaired by the Executive Secretary and DOJ, includes several government agencies and academic partners working together to institutionalize forensic standards in the country.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 23, 2025
