The Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) program of the College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) at the University of Northern Philippines conducted a seminar on the Process of Medico-Legal Examination on September 6, 2025, at the CCJE Function Hall.
The seminar gathered MSCJ students and featured Police Captain Hannah Faye V. Pagayunan, Medico-Legal Officer of the Philippine National Police, as the resource speaker. In her lecture, she emphasized the indispensable role of forensic science in uncovering the truth and upholding justice, stressing that “the body never tells lies.”
To reinforce the discussion, participants were divided into groups and engaged in case analyses, where they identified and classified wounds on a victim. This interactive activity allowed students to apply medico-legal principles in a practical setting.
PCapt. Pagayunan also reminded the participants of Locard’s Exchange Principle—“Every contact leaves a trace”—a cornerstone of forensic investigation that continues to guide crime-solving practices.
The seminar was spearheaded by MSCJ Program Head Dr. Marlow Pacapac, faculty member Dr. George Philippe Amano, and CCJE Dean Dr. Sina Bestre. Dr. Arlan Reburon and Dr. Edwin Cerna served as facilitators, while documentation was handled by Dr. Loida Rilveria and The Defender student publication.
Photos & Article: Erich Bernadette Manabat, The Defender (MSCJ Representative)
