Landmark Cases and Genetic Breakthroughs Take Center Stage at CCJEF's 2nd International Criminal Justice Expert Talk
College of Criminal Justice Education and Forensics
July 16, 2024
Holy Angel University's College of Criminal Justice Education and Forensics (CCJEF), in partnership with the University of the Philippines- Natural Sciences Research Institute, successfully hosted its 2nd International Criminal Justice Expert Talk on July 13, 2024 held at PGN Auditorium. The event, themed "High Profile Cases in the Spotlight: A Cross-Cultural Examination of Legal and Forensic Issues," brought together renowned legal experts, forensic experts, and practitioners for a day of insightful discussions and presentations.
The program commenced with welcome remarks by CCJEF Dean Dr. Niño M. Kabiling, who highlighted the significance of continuous learning and collaboration in the ever-evolving criminal justice field. This was followed by an inspirational message from HAU-OIC President, Mr. Leopoldo Jaime N. Valdes, who emphasized the university's commitment to providing values-based education and promoting academic excellence.
The event was graced by a virtual special message of support from Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, underscoring the importance of upholding justice and the rule of law in the country.
The first speaker, Atty. Jose M. Jose, Director of the Innocents Project of the Philippines, delivered a compelling talk on "The Visconde Murders: A Case Study in Eye Witness Testimony, Forensic Science, and Legal Ethics." Atty. Jose meticulously examined the complexities of the case, shedding light on the crucial roles of eyewitness testimony, forensic evidence, and legal ethics in the pursuit of justice.
The second speaker, Honorable Justice John Champion, Justice of the Supreme Court of Victoria, Australia, captivated the audience with his presentation on "Genetic Discoveries and Criminal Justice: Lessons Learned from Kathleen Folbig Case." Justice Champion delved into the groundbreaking advancements in genetic science and their profound implications for the criminal justice system, using the Folbig case as a compelling example.
A panel discussion ensued after the presentations, featuring both speakers, Dr. Maria Corazon De Ungria, Head, DNA Analysis Laboratory, UPD NSRI, and Atty. Aloi Renz P. Santos from the Commission on Human Rights Region 3. The panelists engaged in a lively exchange of ideas, addressing questions from the audience and further exploring the intricate relationship between science, law, and human rights in the administration of justice.
The 2nd International Criminal Justice Expert Talk fostered a vibrant intellectual discourse and knowledge-sharing atmosphere. The event provided a platform for experts from diverse fields to come together and discuss critical issues facing the criminal justice system, paving the way for potential collaborations and future advancements in the pursuit of justice.
The event was well-attended by students, forensic experts, legal practitioners, law enforcement officers, and other stakeholders in the criminal justice system. The positive feedback and enthusiastic participation from the attendees attested to the event's relevance and impact on the community.
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