'Advanced' crime lab opens in Zamboanga City

Western Mindanao has a new and modern crime laboratory, which “is said to be the most advanced forensics lab in the region, according to Philippine officials," the United States Embassy in Manila said Saturday. The embassy said the lab, located in Zamboanga City, is part of a series of initiatives to improve the efficiency and service of the Philippine National Police (PNP), and is expected to speed up criminal investigations. Chief Superintendent Elpidio de Asis, who heads the PNP Police Region 9, said the crime lab shows the depth of the partnership between the Philippines and the United States. "With this building and equipment, we are better able to carry out our mandate to support the Filipino people and other law enforcement agencies," de Asis said. "This crime lab represents the realization of a dream, where many people are working together for a common goal. It takes a special kind of person to dedicate their life to the service of others," US Ambassador Harry K. Thomas Jr. said. — RJMD/ELR, GMA News