UP Manila, Monash University partner to boost forensic science

The University of the Philippines (UP) Manila has entered into a partnership with Monash University of Australia for the training of a new breed of forensic scientists in February next year.

- Neil Jayson Servallos

Raquel Fortun, one of just two forensic pathologists in the Philippines, said she expects a "bright future for the justice system" as the country aims to increase its forensic practitioners.

"I waited 30 years for this, and now I am more than two years away from retirement. We don't have a death investigation system, which is beneficial to our criminal justice and public health issues. We are not seriously interested in preventing deaths by learning from them," Fortun said, adding that the partnership between UP Manila and Monash University is a good start.