Groundbreaking ceremonies were held on Wednesday for the National Forensics Institute (NFI), which will be located at the University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) and aims to strengthen the country’s forensic capabilities.
The NFI will support criminal investigations, national security, and disaster response by providing scientifically backed evidence, while UPM will offer a master’s course in forensic medicine starting next academic year.
The program is partly funded by the Australian government and will involve experts from Monash University and local forensic pathologists, addressing a long-standing gap in the country’s forensic system.
Officials present included Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, and UP leadership.
The institute is part of the government’s commitment to enhance justice and human rights through science-based forensic services, fulfilling a pledge made during the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Source: PhilNews24 | June 21, 2025
