July 31, 2019 — Forensics experts spanning multiple disciplines such as pathology, medicine, dentistry, anthropology, and disaster management gathered on July 22-26, 2019 for the “2nd Short Course on Forensics in Mass Casualty Identification.” It was organized by the UP Manila College of Arts and Sciences, College of Medicine, and College of Dentistry.
Among the lecturers were forensic pathologist and UP Manila professor Dr. Raquel Fortun, anthropologist Francisco Datar, anthropologist and CAS professor Teresita De Guzman, National Sciences Research Institute Research Laboratory DNA Analysis Laboratory Director Maria Corazon de Ungria, forensic archaeologist Dr. Ame Garong from the National Museum of the Philippines, Dr. Irineo Lit Jr., representatives from the Department of Health and Bureau of Fire Protection, and other professors from 3 campuses (Manila, Diliman, Los Baños).
Fortun stated in her lecture entitled “Identification of a Victim’s Identity Based on Forensic Pathology” that without science such as DNA tests and matching dental records, investigators can get clues from personal effects such as engravings on wedding bands, initials stitched onto underwear, ID cards in wallets, and ornaments on mobile phones. She added that “fresh” is best because it will become harder as the body decomposes. Should registration be required for SIM cards, this will also provide clues on the identity of the dead, she explained.
For his part, Datar who specializes in identifying dead bodies through their bones said that we need to be able to know the language of the bones to understand them.
De Ungria stated that drawing blood and muscle from dead bodies before they are embalmed can help in DNA tests. Teeth can also be used, with molars as the best source for DNA. Hair cannot be used, unlike saliva. Bones are the “last resort” because investigators have to saw through them.
Meanwhile, anthropologist and CAS professor Teresita de Guzman pointed out that it is not just about counting dead bodies and body bags but empasized the need to respect the culture and dignity of the individuals.
In her welcome message, Chancellor Carmencita Padilla stated that as the national health university, UP Manila takes on this very challenging and great responsibility of training specialists and enlightening the public on the forensics of mass casualty identification. This second course, she added, will provide a deeper understanding of the tasks of forensic experts in capacitating emergency and disaster management teams and workers.
