Press Release
June 12, 2009

Seeing the technology's use in man-made and natural disasters
Angara urges institutionalization of RP's DNA system

Sen. Edgardo J. Angara today pushes for the creation of National DNA Index System (NADIS) which aims to contribute to the country's forensic investigation capability. Recent catastrophes and disasters have brought into the forefront the possible benefits of utilizing DNA analysis.

"I am strongly optimistic that enhancing the generation and use of genetic information thru DNA analyses will contribute greatly to the investigation and expeditious resolution disaster cases in the country. Not only that, DNA forensic technology has altered the landscape of the criminal justice system. It can be used to identify criminals with incredible accuracy when biological evidence exists, and it can also be used to clear suspects and exonerate persons mistakenly accused or convicted of crimes," said Angara who chairs the Senate Committee on Science and Technology.

DNA technology was used to identify bodies of passengers of the MV Princess of the Stars that sank at the height of Typhoon Frank. However, a system must be institutionalized to properly document information gathered from the victims.

Angara filed a bill which seeks to establish a comprehensive national DNA database for the country by creating a National DNA Index System (NADIS) to be administered by the National Bureau of Investigation. In order to maximize the benefits of the system, the bill also seeks to improve and expand the DNA testing capacity of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Philippine National Police and the University of the Philippines (UP) local crime laboratories. Research and development of new DNA testing technologies, as well as, training programs regarding the collection and use of DNA evidence will be undertaken.

Another primary focus of the bill is to harness the capacity of forensic DNA technology in aiding the criminal justice system. DNA typing is considered unquestionably sound and reliable by the scientific community and the courts and is widely accepted as evidence.

"DNA forensic technology has altered the landscape of the criminal justice system. It can be used to identify criminals with incredible accuracy when biological evidence exists, and it can also be used to clear suspects and exonerate persons mistakenly accused or convicted of crimes. This is not a panacea to all of society's ills, true. But it has and it continues to place a human face on the statistical probability of error that has always existed in our criminal system," he added.

Angara has always placed premium on scientific innovation through research and technology. In order to harness its potentials and benefits, the senator pushes for timely legislations such as DNA Analysis Enhancement Act and the Technology Transfer Act.

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