by: Mr. Jess M. Domigan, RCrim (CCJE Crime Laboratory Custodian)
On April 16, 2026, a significant step toward strengthening the Philippine justice system was marked by the launch of the “Justice Through Science” project at the University of the Cordilleras. The initiative brought together academic institutions, law enforcement agencies, and international partners in a shared commitment to enhance forensic science capabilities across the country.
Baguio Central University College of Criminal Justice Education, under the leadership of OIC Dean Beca May Palitayan, participated in the event. BCU CCJE was represented by its Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Elma Donaal, along with Mr. Jess M. Domigan and Mr. Norman B. Bustillo. Their presence underscored the BCU’s commitment to advancing forensic education and strengthening academic collaboration.
The “Justice Through Science” project is the result of a collaborative effort among the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, the University of the Cordilleras, and the U.S. International Exchange Alumni–Philippines. The initiative also aligns with the celebration of 80 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and the Philippines, highlighting the enduring value of international cooperation in promoting justice and institutional development.
Delivering a message on behalf of the host institution’s leadership, Ray Dean D. Salvosa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of the Cordilleras, emphasized the critical role of forensic science in modern criminal investigations. He noted that scientific methods not only strengthen evidentiary value but also uphold the integrity of the justice system by ensuring accuracy and objectivity in case resolution.
The keynote address was delivered by Rodil V. Zalameda, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, who highlighted the indispensable role of forensic science in the fair administration of justice. He stressed that as legal systems evolve, the integration of scientific expertise is essential in establishing truth and accountability.
Further support for the initiative was expressed by the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines through a message delivered by Chad Kinnear, reaffirming international commitment to fostering partnerships that promote justice, transparency, and the rule of law through scientific advancement.
Central to the project is a comprehensive training program designed to enhance the competencies of students and practitioners in the forensic field. The initiative combines specialized online instruction with intensive, hands-on laboratory training, focusing on core disciplines such as forensic anthropology, friction ridge examination (fingerprint analysis), and DNA analysis.
To expand its reach, the project will conduct a nationwide seminar series across key regions: the University of the Cordilleras for Luzon, the University of Cebu, Inc. for the Visayas, and PHINMA-Cagayan de Oro College for Mindanao. In addition, a series of webinars featuring local and international forensic science practitioners will be organized to encourage knowledge exchange and strengthen professional networks.
The program is open to educators, law enforcement personnel, legal professionals, and forensic science practitioners, with applications for the online training component available until April 30, 2026.
Beyond technical training, the initiative aims to raise public awareness about the importance of forensic science in the Philippine justice system. By bridging the gap between science and law, it promotes evidence-based practices that contribute to fair and efficient legal outcomes.
As the Philippines continues to strengthen its justice framework, initiatives like “Justice Through Science” demonstrate the power of collaboration, education, and innovation. Through sustained efforts and strategic partnerships, the project stands as a promising step toward a more scientifically grounded and trustworthy system of justice.
Photographs taken after the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony, featuring (from left to right): Chad Kinnear of the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines; Dr. Christian Pascual, Project lead and a key driver of the Justice Through Science initiative in the Philippines; Dr. Elam Donaal, Vice President for Academic Affairs of Baguio Central University.
Group photographs of institutional partners alongside Chad Kinnear of the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines; Rodil V. Zalameda, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, Ray Dean D. Salvosa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of the Cordilleras, Dr. Christian Pascual, Project lead and a key driver of the Justice Through Science initiative in the Philippines; and Dr. Elma Donaal, Vice President for Academic Affairs of Baguio Central University.
From left to right: Baguio Central University delegates Mr Norman B Bustillo, Dr Elma D Donaal, and Mr Jess M Domigan pose for posterity during the “Justice Through Science” Project Launch.
“It is evidence that does not forget. It is not confused by the excitement of the moment. It is not absent because human witnesses are. It is factual evidence. Physical evidence cannot be wrong, it cannot perjure itself, it cannot be wholly absent. Only human failure to find it, study and understand it, can diminish its value.” — Edmund Locard (a pioneering French criminologist and forensic scientist known as the “Sherlock Holmes of France)
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Photo credits: Mr. Norman B. Bustillo, RCrim (CCJE Full-Time Faculty)
About the Author:
Mr. Jess M. Domigan is currently the Laboratory Custodian at Baguio Central University and is highly motivated to further develop his career by acquiring more knowledge in forensic science, enabling him to teach his students more effectively.
