Members, students, and esteemed representatives from the University of Baguio School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety (SCJPS) successfully hosted the International Seminar-Workshop in collaboration with international experts from the University of Kent, England, and the Sherlock Institute of Forensic Science, India.
Conducted on the 16th of March 2026 at the UB Cardinals Gymnasium, the theme “The Forensic Blueprint: Integrating Science, Technology, and Justice” ran with a series of discussions and practical exercises under the Training in Research, Analysis, and Certification Endeavors (T.R.A.C.E.) program, giving students an invaluable opportunity to interact with global leaders in forensic science and criminology. The seminar/workshop also saw light from participating individuals and student delegates from Class Maharagsik 2026, third-year BAFS, and selected lower-year participants, thus creating a dynamic academic platform to strengthen the understanding of modern forensic investigations and the endearing role in supporting justice.
The program saw a full day of academic and professional engagement, combining theoretical discussions and hands-on workshops that enable academic delegates to heighten their analytical accuracy through various methodological rigors and ethical responsibilities. Additionally, the program included cooperative exercises in which students simulated document examination, digital evidence appraisal, and crime scene analysis in small groups.
Alt Text: Highlights from the seminar/workshop at the Cardinals’ Gymnasium with UB SCJPS faculty, students, and esteemed speakers and international experts on Forensic Science, Technology, and Justice
Through the application of academic knowledge to real-world situations, these exercises encouraged collaboration, problem-solving, and moral decision-making. Students stated that the activities helped them better understand the challenges of forensic investigations and the need to handle evidence with integrity and accuracy.
Applying the lessons and actively participating in open discussions with the speakers, the event filled the room with an abundance of practical exercises and preconceptions on real-life challenges in daily forensic investigations. The students explored the intersection of science, technology, and law, all while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for professional practice.
Forensic Talk 101: Experts in Digital and Crime Scene Reconstruction
The morning session was led by Dr. Robert Green, focusing on forensic toxicology, forensic entomology, and DNA analysis, using practical scenarios and real-life contexts to illustrate how a series of toxicological tests detect harmful substances, including the assessment of post-mortem timelines from insect activity and DNA evidence support for accurate identification and crime scene reconstruction.
Highlighting the importance of ethical evidence handling and noting that even the most advanced scientific techniques are only valuable when applied with integrity and morality, all while staying on top of logical perceptions. The session and activities gave students a chance to analyze sample data and discuss the implications of scientific findings on legal outcomes. Further reinforcing the lesson that forensic evidence serves as a cornerstone of ethical justice.
Alt Text: Highlights from the seminar/workshop featuring the Sherlock Institute of Forensic Science, India, Dr. Ranjeet Singh (left), and University of Kent, England, Dr. Robert Green (right)
In the afternoon session, the esteemed academic leader from the Sherlock Institute of Forensic Science, Dr. Ranjeet Singh, guided delegates through the modern course of cyber-intelligence, document verification, and the forensic lifecycle. Having first-hand engagement and hands-on activities to analyze digital evidence, verify the authenticity of documents, and follow the systematic process of managing evidence from collection to courtroom presentation.
Dr. Singh emphasized that every piece of evidence acts as a “silent witness,” and meticulous handling is crucial to ensure reliability and credibility. He also demonstrated how modern technological tools, such as digital forensics software and document verification techniques, can enhance investigative accuracy and strengthen public trust in legal institutions.
Alt Text: Students and academic delegates from the University of Baguio SCJPS department and program
Academic Advancements and International Collaborations
By integrating science, technology, and justice, the seminar/workshop reinforced UB-SCJPS’s commitment to academic excellence, interdisciplinary learning, and international collaboration. Advancing in dedicated programs that uphold Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) standards in:
- SDG 4 – Quality Education through expert-led learning opportunities on local, national, and international standards
- SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by applying modern scientific techniques in forensic practice
- SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions through ethical investigative standards in both theoretical and practical work
- SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals in connecting UB SCJPS program with international academic partners that expand not only technical disciplines, but also a responsibility to justice and society, preparing students to contribute meaningfully to modern forensic practice
The success of the seminar-workshops was possible through the endearing leadership of SCJPS Dean Dr. Charesma Grace K. Lud-ayen, with support coming from Bachelor of Forensic Science Program Chair Dr. Filibert Patrick F. Tad-awan, Bachelor of Science in Criminology Program Chair Dr. Warren G. Moyao, Internship Coordinator Mr. Immanuel Jesus A. Fernandez, UBSCJPS Secretary Ms. Hannah G. Monang, FRSCSW1 Course Facilitator Mr. Justin Joseph T. Almarvez, faculty members, and the UB-SCJPS Student Body with adviser Ms. Jasmin Catao.
Alt Text: Highlights from the seminar/workshop at the Cardinals’ Gymnasium with UB SCJPS faculty, students, and esteemed speakers and international experts on Forensic Science, Technology, and Justice
Their combined efforts ensured a professional academic experience that allowed students to learn, collaborate, and grow in a structured setting. Overall, the seminar/workshop opened the eyes and perspectives of participants with practical skills, analytical insights, and ethical perspectives that will serve as a foundation for their future careers.
Focused learning, collaborative exercises, and engagement with international experts enabled students to enhance their interdisciplinary awareness, professional competence, and readiness to uphold justice in complex forensic investigations. Fundamentally shaping students’ understanding of forensic science and its vital role in supporting strong, ethical institutions.
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Written by: Jelisa Valdez, Voughn Liam Laruan, Anna Uy
Article Enhancement by: Gabriel Madriaga
