Swiss Embassy, UP Manila Discuss Collaboration in Advancing Forensic Education

January 27, 2026

Text by Jennifer Manongdo
Photos by Ehcel Hurna

The Embassy of Switzerland and the University of the Philippines Manila discussed potential areas of collaboration in support of the National Forensics Institute on Jan. 22, 2026. In this photo are (from left) Ana Maria Theresa Japlos, Economic and Trade advisor of the Embassy of Switzerland; David Schwizer, Embassy Attaché; and Hans Christian Baumann, deputy head of mission; Chancellor Michael Tee; Vice Chancellor Bernadette Heizel Reyes; Dr. Raquel Fortun; Dr. Cecile Jimeno; Dr. Cecilia Lim; and Dr. Jose Carnate, Jr.

Representatives from the Embassy of Switzerland visited the University of the Philippines Manila on Jan. 22, 2026, to explore a possible collaboration in the development of the National Forensic Institute (NFI). The visit aimed to better understand the mandate and current status of the NFI and to determine areas where Switzerland’s academic institutions could contribute expertise, particularly in criminal justice, forensic science, and legal medicine.

Previously, the University of Lausanne developed a course module on modern crime scene investigation upon the request of Mexico for their National Forensic Institute. Hans Christian Baumann, the Embassy’s Deputy Head of Mission said the University of Lausanne could also help UP Manila in the development of courses for identifying human remains in mass graves or locating clandestine graves.

The curriculum for the NFI’s master’s degree on forensic science is currently being co-developed by Australia’s Monash University under a transnational higher education framework. Graduates of the course will receive diplomas from both Monash University and UP Manila.

Launched in 2025, the NFI was established to improve the country’s criminal justice system through science-based investigation, training and research. As the country’s national center for forensic education and research, the NFI is meant to enhance the medico-legal systems in support of human rights and reforms in the Philippine justice system.