CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Crime Laboratories have been considered to be essential

organization of justice system as they are the strongest link between

technology and criminal justice. The courts have been known to rely

heavily on the expert opinion and results of the examinations during

criminal trials. It is therefore very important and necessary that these crime

labs work to the fullest of their potential and that there is no hindrance or

control on the way they function as to ensure that justice and equality

prevail.

It is worthwhile to be noted that, the advent of new technology and

the success of television shows have made forensic science more popular

than ever. But the science of solving crimes is never as simple as television

screens imply. On the popular show Crime Scene Investigation (CSI), staff

from a Las Vegas forensic lab solves multiple crimes within the show's hour-

long format, presenting forensic testing as quick producers of

unquestionable court evidence. But unlike the glitzy, made-for-television

laboratory scenario, real-life forensic laboratories' analyses of evidence

are much slower. Behind these doors, sophisticated science and modern

1
technology merge under the guiding hands of skilled scientists to unravel

the mysteries of crime (Saferstein, 2004).

In the era of the “CSI Effect”, juries expect to be impressed with the

results of physical evidence examinations. The fact that these results are

so powerful in a courtroom makes it imperative that they should be

accurate and based on scientific facts. Versatility and patience are the

most often cited qualities of a forensic chemist.

Thus, forensic chemists must be able to spend hours rigorously

applying analytical techniques to evidence, meticulously documenting

each step and then defending their works in a court of law. They must be

able to clearly and concisely respond to challenges to their findings.

As such, Forensic science has been around for a long time and

many of the old techniques are still used today. Many people have

contributed to the start of forensic science. Among them was Edmond

Locard, a physician who established one of the first crime laboratories in

1910, in Lyon, France ("Crime Laboratory" 909)source. He helped develop

various methods to investigate crimes. Using Locard's principles, Los

Angeles, California police chief August Vollmer established one of the first

modern crime laboratories in the United States in 1923. What is it now, how

is it now

2
 With the creation of the first national crime laboratory in

Washington, D.C., the Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory is the

most advanced and comprehensive crime laboratory in the world today.

Not only does it provide scientific evaluations of evidence for U.S. law

enforcement agencies, but it also cooperates in sharing information

worldwide (Quantico, 2003).

Moreover, today’s forensic laboratories are held to be very high

standards, and for good reason. Crime laboratories offer forensic science

services to the criminal justice system. As it includes five basic services: (1)

Physical Science unit: uses the principles of chemistry, physics, and

geology to identify and compare physical evidence; (2) Biology unit:

applies knowledge of biological sciences in order to investigate blood

samples, body fluids, hair and fiber samples; (3) Firearms unit: investigates

discharged bullets, cartridge cases, shotgun shells and ammunition; (4)

Document unit: provides the skills needed for handwriting analysis and

other questioned document issues; and (5) Photographic unit: applies

specialized photographic techniques for recording and examining

physical evidence. source

Additional services may include toxicology, fingerprint analysis,

voiceprint analysis, evidence collection and polygraph (lie detector)

administration. These Forensic sciences apply scientific testing methods

3
and the latest technologies to collect, preserve, process, and analyze

evidence. Proof of guilt or innocence is frequently determined by the

results of forensic evidence.

In the Philippines, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Crime

Laboratory marked its historic milestone of 70 years of dynamic forensic

service for the Filipino.

Despite the inherent budgetary and manpower constraints of the

organization, Senator Bong Bong Marcos as cited by __________ exhorted

everybody to do everything to ensure that it shall always have a Crime

Laboratory that is operationally effective, with safe, sound and secure

creative innovations, chain-of-custody protocols and standard operating

procedures, which are capable of faithfully preserving and accurately

solving even the most complicated and mysterious of crime scenes, cases

and mysteries.

To stress this point, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Crime

Laboratory manpower is composed of medical doctors, chemists,

biologists, pharmacists, chemical engineers, criminologists, among others,

with particular line of expertise, and underwent trainings in the country

and abroad.

The PNP Crime Laboratory Group is primarily responsible for the

examination, evaluation and identification of physical evidence gathered

4
at the crime scene during an incident which helps solve cases. It is now a

modern unit with advanced equipment and highly trained personnel. The

agents of the Crime Laboratory, commonly called SOCO (Scene of the

Crime Operatives), are as crucial to crime solution as police officers

chasing criminals (Sison and Felipe, 2011).

As former Deputy Director General Arturo Cacdac Jr., what year

PNP deputy chief for operations says, a number of high profile cases have

been resolved with the help of highly-trained forensic examiners using

advanced and modern equipment. A team of experts in medico-legal,

fingerprint and DNA, among others, from the crime lab have successfully

identified victims of natural disasters, where corpses are too many and in

advanced state of decomposition.

In local setting, recently Scene of the Crime Operatives of the

Regional Crime Laboratory Office 1 (RCLO1) identified the bodies of three

unidentified women who were allegedly “salvaged” or summarily killed

found along the dike of Kennon road in Barangay Bangar, Rosario, La

Union. The Rosario Police station requested the Medico Legal Officer from

RCLO1 to conduct autopsies on the bodies to determine the cause of

death of the women. (Elias and Junio, 2017)

As per the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office based on

their Annual Accomplishment Report period covered from year 2015 to

5
2017, all request for forensic examinations they have received were

completed on time based on Citizen Charter. Forensic examinations like

autopsy; DNA Analysis; urine drug test; dangerous drugs identification;

macro-etching of vehicle; firearms (FA) examination; fingerprint

identification; crime scene photography; gunshot powder residue (GPR) –

paraffin test; GPR – test for FA; explosive identification; and computerized

facial composite were among the identified services.

Theoretical Framework

The study basically comprised three theories such as Theory of

performance, Goal-setting theory, and contingency theory. These theories

explained how performance can be measured.

The generality with which accomplishments are viewed and

evaluated depends on the level at which things are viewed. If they are

asked whether there is competence within a certain corporation, their

answer will depend on the level at which they view its performance. To

perform is to take a complex series of actions that integrate skills and

knowledge to produce a valuable result.

This study primarily anchored on the “Theory of Performance” (ToP)

by Don Elger, University of Idaho, which develops and relates six

foundational concepts to form a framework that can be used to explain

performance as well as performance improvements. To perform is to

6
produce valued results. A performer can be an individual or a group of

people engaging in a collaborative effort. Developing performance is a

journey, and level of performance describes location in the journey.

Current level of performance depends holistically on 6 components:

context, level of knowledge, levels of skills, level of identity, personal

factors, and fixed factors (Burdan, 2010).

For Wholey (1996), measurement is necessary as performance is not

an objective reality, out there somewhere, waiting to be measured and

evaluated, but a socially constructed reality that exists in people’s minds,

if it exists anywhere at all. It has diverse interpretations and it may include:

inputs, outputs, outcomes, impacts and relate to economy, efficiency,

effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, or equity.

In connection to this study, the theory was used in the performance

of personnel, wherein the competency of the Crime laboratory will

depend on its personnel. They will learn that its performance will reflect on

its accomplishment. Hence, performance evaluations are strategic

performance management instruments implemented with the purpose of

assessing and measuring performance reached, in well-defined

frameworks, such as quarterly or annual reviews.

Another is the Locke & Latham's goal-setting theory which is the

main theory informing individual performance management and one of

7
the most effective motivational theories. Its roots are based on the

premise that conscious goals affect action (where goals are considered

the object or aim or an action) (Locke & Latham, 2002).

While goal setting theory is generally analyzed at individual level, its

principles are considered relevant at organizational level, too. Locke

(2004) further argues that goal-setting is effective for any task where

people have control over their performance. Research in this field

currently explores goal setting theory at both individual and

organizational level. In organizational context, personal empirical

observations highlight that the goals of individuals, teams and the entity

as a whole can be in conflict. Goal conflict can motivate incompatible

actions and this has the potential to impact performance. Thus, alignment

between individual goals and group goals is important for maximizing

performance.

The Goal-setting theory has something to do with the present study

because it reveals that if the Crime Laboratory personnel are motivated in

the sense that their goals themselves as upholder of justice is in

accordance with the mission of the Philippine National Police as a whole

and the other way around then it will produce a notable achievement.

In addition, the Contingency theory (Fiedler, 1964) of organizations

has its essence in the paradigm that organizational effectiveness results

8
from fitting characteristics of the organization (structure) to different

contingencies such as environment, organizational size and strategy.

Overall, various versions of organizational theory emphasize the

importance of task characteristics, especially task programmability, to the

choice of control strategy. The existence of "people" or social control is as

an alternative to control through performance evaluation. In contrast to

the classical scholars, most theorists today believe that there is no one

best way to organize. What is important is that there be a fit between the

organization’s structure, its size, its technology, and the requirements of its

environment. This perspective is known as contingency theory that

contends that the optimal organization / leadership style is contingent

upon various internal and external constraints.

In the study, the theory was used in the existence of various factors

both internal and external that could affect the performance of the Ilocos

Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office as whole and its personnel.

All the above theories show the relationship of a high level of

performance to a very satisfactory accomplishment. Moreover, in every

operation, in each duties and responsibilities of their performance, there

will be hindrances that the crime laboratory personnel will encounter.

Therefore, these provided insights and guided the researcher in

conceptualizing the investigation.

9
 Thus, with the above presented theories, this study focused on the

performance of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office. This

study used the Input-Process-Output (Figure 1) for it is the most

appropriate type of paradigm to be used in the study.

On the first box (INPUT) can be found the accomplishment in terms

of crime scene processing; evidence storage; and analyzing of evidence

and information dissemination, usage and utility and performance in

terms of work output; job knowledge; and work management and

problems along the four areas. The second box (PROCESS) details how the

input-questions are going to be answered and the third box (OUTPUT)

reveals what needs to be answered by the end of the study.

Box one contains the INPUT, wherein the Level of Accomplishment

of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office in terms of: ; a. crime

scene processing; b. evidence storage; and c. analyzing of evidence and

information dissemination, usage and utility and the Level of Performance

of the Personnel of Ilocos Sur Crime Laboratory Office in terms of: a. Work

Output; b. Job Knowledge; and c. Work Management and problems

encountered by Ilocos Sur Crime Laboratory Office in terms of: a.

Personnel; b. Materials; c. Methods; and d. Technical Services. Box two

contains the PROCESS, wherein this study wants to determine the level of

accomplishments, level of performance and problems encountered

10
through survey questionnaire and interview; and Box three contains the

OUTPUT, wherein the proposed formulated action plan to improve the

accomplishment and performance of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime

Laboratoryoffice.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

1. Level of
Accomplishment of the
Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime
Laboratory Office in terms
of: .
a. Crime Scene
Processing;
b. Evidence
storage; and Determine the Proposed
c. Analyzing of level of formulated action
evidence and
accomplishments plan to improve
information
, level of the
dissemination,
usage and utility. performance accomplishment
2. Level of Performance of and problems and performance
the Personnel of Ilocos Sur encountered of the Ilocos Sur
Crime Laboratory Office in through survey Provincial Crime
terms of: questionnaire Laboratory Office.
a. Work Output;
and interview.
b. Job Knowledge;
and
c. Work Management.
3. Problems encountered
by Ilocos Sur Crime
Laboratory Office in terms
of:
a. Personnel;
b. Materials;
c. Methods; and
d. Technical Services.

Figure 1. Research Paradigm

11
Statement of the Problem

The study aimed to determine the performance of personnel and

accomplishment of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office.

Specifically, it sought answers to the following questions:

1. What is the level of Accomplishment of the Ilocos Sur Provincial

Crime Laboratory Office in terms of:

a. Crime Scene Processing;

b. Evidence Storage; and

c. Analyzing of Evidence and Information Dissemination, Usage,

and Utility?

2. What is the level of Performance of the Personnel of the Ilocos Sur

Provincial Crime Laboratory Office in terms of:

a. Work Output;

b. Job Knowledge; and

c. Work Management?

3. What are the problems encountered by the Ilocos Sur Provincial

Crime Laboratory Office in terms of:

a. Personnel;

b. Materials;

c. Methods; and

12
 d. Technical Services?

4. What action plan can be formulated and proposed to improve the

accomplishment and performance of the Ilocos Sur Provincial

Crime Laboratory Office?

Importance of the Study

The conduct of this study is considered beneficial to the following:

Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory (PNPCL). This may provide the

PNPCL the opportunity to become fully concerned on the current stand of

its provincial crime laboratory offices specifically on problems that being

encountered by the personnel and to give them baseline to understand

and find solutions to their problems.

Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Personnel. This study may give them

awareness to the current status of their accomplishments and

performances. They will therefore have basis for improvement if needed

and for them to have understanding of the problems they encountered.

This may help them for their professional development.

The Government Units and other Agencies. The results of this study may

prompt them to give the Crime Laboratory their utmost support.

ACADEME. This study may serve as an additional reference material to

college. This will also expose the students to enhance their interest and

13
skills in research and help as a guideline to those who plan to conduct a

research which is relevant to the study.

Researcher. As a student of the graduate studies, this research will be a

very enriching experience for her because of the opportunity to see the

existing standing of the performance of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime

Laboratory Office.

Future Researchers. This study would serve as a reference material for

those students who would like to conduct similar or related study. This may

also give additional awareness that could be given to students. It will be a

source for expansion of knowledge so they may further studies and

acquire ideas that could be applied.

The Readers. This research would enable them to understand that Crime

Laboratory contributes equally to the important area of “crime solving”,

which paves the way for attainment of justice and make them wonder no

more when our police will ever have those high-tech devices to solve

crimes.

Definition of Terms

For more clarification and understanding of the study, the following

terms were defined operationally.

14
Crime Laboratory. It refers to the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory

Office.

Level of Accomplishment. It is the measurement pertaining to the

technical services rendered by the Crime Laboratory.

Level of Performance. It describes the measurement pertaining to the

work undertaken by Crime Lab Personnel in line with their mandated

duties and responsibilities.

Personnel. These are commonly called Scene of the Crime Operatives

(SOCO) of the Crime Laboratory that will serves as the respondent of this

study.

Problem. In this study, it refers to an intricate question or issue that the

personnel of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office

encountered in every operation in performing their duties and

responsibilities.

Proposed Action Plan. These are actions recommended to address the

problems that were identified in the treatment of data.

Technical Services. These pertains to the services rendering by the Crime

Laboratory Offices like: fingerprint analysis; handwriting analysis and other

questioned document issues; ballistic examination; evidence collection;

polygraph (lie detector) administration; autopsy; macro-etching

15
examination; DNA profiling; chemistry analysis/seized drugs/drug test;

physical identification examination; paraffin test; forensic photography

and other more.

16
 CHAPTER 2

METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents the research design, population and locale of

the study, instrumentation and data collection, reliability and validity,

data analysis and categorization of data used in this study.

Research Design

The study utilized the descriptive survey method of research.

Specifically, descriptive survey method involves the collection of

standardized information from respondents and used to measure the

competence of the problem means kulang (Calonima, 2006). Moreover,

the descriptive method is necessary in describing the nature on any

situation existing at the time of the study and to explore the causes of a

particular phenomenon.

The research was conducted using questionnaire checklist to

gather relevant data on the level of accomplishment; level of

performance of personnel; and the problems encountered by the Ilocos

Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office.

Population and Locale of the Study

The study was conducted at Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory

and along the identified top ten (10) cities/municipalities of the First District

17
of Ilocos Sur having cases that mostly needed the assistance of the Ilocos

Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory where the sources of data and

information were gathered. Based on personal communication of the

researcher to one of the personnel of the Ilocos Sur provincial Crime

Laboratory Office last October 16, 2018, they had a total of five (5)

personnel and the top ten (10) cities/municipalities are as follows: Vigan

City PS; Bantay MPS; Magsingal MPS; Cabugao MPS; Sinait MPS; Santa

Catalina MPS; Narvacan MPS; Sto. Domingo MPS; Santa Maria MPS; and

San Juan MPS. Each cities/municipalities has two (2) Police Investigators

together with the Crime Laboratory Personnel that served as the

respondents of this study.

Table 1. Respondent by Groups

Group Population

Crime Laboratory Personnel 5

Police Investigators 20

Total 25

Instrumentation and Data Collection

To obtain the necessary data, specifically the level of

accomplishment of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office, the

level of performance of personnel of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime

18
Laboratory Office and the problems encountered by the Ilocos Sur

Provincial Crime Laboratory Office, a questionnaire designed by the

researcher was presented to the researcher’s adviser for checking and

recommendations. The content of the instrument was based on the

findings of the interview conducted with the Crime Lab personnel as well

as on the information from the literature reviewed in order to get more

reliable data. Furthermore, the researcher prepared a letter of request to

the evaluators to validate the survey questionnaire. The questionnaire was

prepared by the researcher and shown to the adviser for further

comments for its improvement. After getting the survey questionnaires, the

results were tallied and interpreted.

Data Analysis

The data collected from the field were analyzed. Statistically,

weighted mean was used to determine the level of accomplishment; and

the level of performance of Crime lab personnel. Frequency count and

percentage was used for the problems encountered by Ilocos Sur

Provincial Crime Laboratory Office.

Weighted mean was computed using the formula:

The average weighted mean was obtained using the formula:

∑ 𝑓𝑥
X= 𝑛

19
 Where: X = weighted mean

∑ 𝑓𝑥 = Total Weighted Value

f = frequency count

x = midpoint of scores

n = the no. of respondent

Categorization of Data. The descriptive equivalent rating and the

range of values are presented below on the level of accomplishment

using 4.0 point Likert scale and on the level of performance of personnel

using 5.0 point Likert scale.

A. Level of Accomplishment of the Ilocos Sur Crime Laboratory Office

Numerical Evaluation Descriptive Equivalent

3.26 – 4.00 Very Satisfactory

2.51 – 3. 25 Satisfactory

1.76 – 2.50 Moderately Satisfactory

1.00 – 1.75 Not Satisfactory

B. Level of Performance of Personnel of Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime

Laboratory Office. Explain why 5

Numerical Evaluation Descriptive Equivalent

4.20 – 5.00 Outstanding (OS)

3.40 – 4.19 Very Satisfactory (VS)

20
 2.60 – 3.39 Satisfactory (SF)

1.80 – 2.59 Fair (F)

1.00 – 1.79 Poor (P)

CHAPTER 3

RSULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

This chapter presents the findings of the study and the discussion of

findings in the light of information sought to provide answers to the

research problems being investigated. It includes the analyses of the data

presented and the interpretation of results.

Discussion in this research focused on the level of accomplishment

of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office. Likewise, it is also

centered on the level of performance of personnel of the Ilocos Sur

Provincial Crime Laboratory Office. Lastly, this research dealt on the

problems encountered by Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office.

21
Level of Accomplishment of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory

Office

The level of accomplishment focused on the three dimensions

namely: Crime Scene Processing; Evidence Storage; and Analyzing of

Evidence and Information Dissemination, Usage, and Utility.

Table 2. Level of Accomplishment of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime

Laboratory Office.

Indicators Crime Police AWM DE

Lab Investigator
Personnel
n=5 n=20

a. Crime Scene Processing

1. Regular and timely crime 4.00 3.70 3.85 VS

scene processing.
2. Regular and timely processing 3.60 3.70 3.65 VS
of Physical Evidence.
3. Regular and timely 4.00 3.70 3.85 VS
documentation of crime scenes
(sketches, notes, photographs,
etc.).
Sub-mean 3.87 3.70 3.78 VS

b. Evidence Storage

1. Regularly submits properly 4.00 3.65 3.83 VS

physical evidence for
examination, analyses and
storage.
2. Always store and secure 4.00 3.90 3.95 VS
evidence properly (prevent
alteration, destruction, or theft of
evidence while stored).
3. Properly dispose physical 3.60 3.70 3.65 VS
evidence every time when

22
appropriate.
Sub-mean 3.87 3.75 3.81 VS

c. Analyzing of Evidence and

Information Dissemination,
Usage, and Utility
1. Continuously provide workable 3.60 3.55 3.58 VS
ways to expedite and triage
cases and analyses.
2. Always provide information 3.60 3.80 3.70 VS
that is understandable for
investigators, prosecutors and
others.
3. Keeps on providing forensic 3.60 3.70 3.65 VS
information that is serviceable for
cases, prosecutions and
clearances.
Sub-mean 3.60 3.68 3.64 VS

GRAND MEAN 3.78 3.71 3.74 VS

Legend: VS – Very Satisfactory; AWM – Average Weighted Mean; DE –

Descriptive Equivalent

As reflected in Table 2, the level of accomplishment obtained a

grand mean of 3.74 which means that the respondents’ perception as

regards to the accomplishment of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime

Laboratory Office is very satisfactory. It therefore implies that the detailed

personnel to man the operation in their relative duties to find, secure, and

process crime scenes of the said unit are highly capable, trustworthy,

remarkable, and impressive and highly trained specialists. This is in

accordance in their Mission as reflected in the Scene of Crime Operation

Manual as it goes, “the SOCO shall provide forensic expertise to criminal

23
investigation by preserving, securing, and if need be, by scientifically

reconstructing the crime scene for the collection, documentation, and

forensic examination of all collected physical evidence with the end view

of establishing fact/s relative to a criminal incident”. Since failure to

perform properly their main functions will tantamount to the insolvency of

a crime.

The three indicators namely Crime Scene Processing, Evidence

Storage and Analysing of Evidence and Information Dissemination, Usage,

and Utility are within the same VS level with 3.78, 3.81 and 3.64 AWM

respectively. However, it can be gleaned that out of the three indicators,

“Evidence Storage” has the highest Average Weighted Mean (AWM). This

is an indicative that they store and secure evidence properly (prevent

alteration, destruction, or theft of evidence while stored). According to

PSSupt Mariano L. Tugguin (Ret.), former provincial chief of Ilocos Sur

Provincial Crime Laboratory Office (ISPCLO), there is now a state-of-the-

art evidence storage room available there that allow then the crime lab

personnel to store properly the pieces of evidence under their custody. In

addition, this finding agrees on the statement of Police Superintendent

Victor Drapete, former PNP Crime Laboratory Chemist Division chief (UNTV

News and Rescue, May 10th, 2017), wherein PNP Crime Laboratory assures

that there is strict entry into their storage facilities where they place illegal

drugs confiscated during police operations. It also complemented that it

24
has a three-lock system, and the keys are with three different persons.

One is with the director or his representative, another is with the Chief of

the Chemist Division and the last one is the evidence custodian.

On the other hand, “Analysing of Evidence and Information

Dissemination, Usage, and Utility” got the lowest mean (3.64). This still

indicates that the Crime Lab personnel are doing their jobs very efficiently

and effectively especially on providing forensic information that is usable

in for cases and prosecutions. This reinforces the belief of the people that

the police organization especially the Crime Lab is dispenser of justice

and an advocate of human rights in elucidating complex crimes that

happens on day to day basis.

Moreover, the ISCLO doesn’t have technical examiner like

ballistician, chemist and medico-legal that is why cases needing the

services of the aforementioned were being forwarded to the Regional

Crime Laboratory Office 1. According to PSSupt Mariano L. Tugguin (Ret.),

the ISCLO personnel are more on crime scene processing and limited only

for technical examination which is analysing of evidence. (Personal

Communication, January 12, 2019).

25
 Level of Performance of Personnel of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime

Laboratory Office

Table 3 presents the level of performance of personnel of the Ilocos

Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office in terms of: work output; job

knowledge; and work management.

Table 3. Level of Performance of Personnel of the Ilocos Sur Provincial

Crime Laboratory Office

Indicators Crime Police AWM DE

Lab Investigat
Personnel ors
a. Work Output

a.1 Makes reports that contribute 4.20 4.55 4.40 O

in some way to the elucidation of
the event.
a.2 Delivers the report timely to 3.60 4.30 3.95 VS
the client.
a.3 Ability to help the police and 4.00 4.50 4.25 O
justice to elucidate complex
crimes, using science, respecting
human rights.
a.4 Makes services available in a 4.00 4.65 4.30 O
time to assist its clients in their
respective activities.
Sub-mean 3.95 4.50 4.23 O

26
b. Job Knowledge

b.1 Able to incorporate new 3.60 4.30 3.95 VS

technologies applied in the
service.
b.2 Provides clear, objective, 3.60 4.30 3.95 VS
timely and focused
communications to any direct
clients, peers and superior.
b.3 Demonstrates an ability to 3.80 4.40 4.10 VS
transfer vision, mission and
objectives of the Organization
into execution.
b.4 Establishes a direct dialogical 4.00 4.25 4.13 VS
relationship with each of the
clients.
b.5 Shows creativity and initiative 3.80 4.40 4.10 VS
when tackling any problems.
Sub-mean 3.76 4.33 4.05 VS

c. Work Management

c.1 Enforces organization’s 4.00 4.45 4.23 O

policies and SOPs without
creating negative reactions.
c.2 Follows recommended 3.80 4.55 4.18 VS
standard procedures at all stages
of the process.
c.3 Ability to properly categorize 4.20 4.55 4.38 O
and file records accordingly.
c.4 Displays the ability to work 4.20 4.45 4.33 O
effectively with clients.
c.5 Organizes tasks in order of 3.80 4.70 4.25 O
their importance and ensure that
work is completed on priority.
Sub-mean 4.00 4.54 4.27 O

GRAND MEAN 3.90 4.46 4.18 VS

Legend: O – Outstanding; VS – Very Satisfactory; DE – Descriptive

Equivalent

27
 Generally, the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office is

perceived to be Very Satisfactory (mean: 4.18) in its mandate to serve

and protect. This only indicates that the said unit of the Philippine National

Police (PNP) is highly professionalized accordingly in terms of their job

descriptions. This is in complement as the Crime Laboratory Group is the

first unit to bag the much-coveted ISO 9001 certification in 2006 as issued

by the International Organization for Standardization. This means that the

unit has met the requirements set by the international standard-setting

body in terms of quality management. They also received the ISO

9001:2015 Certificate with three years effectivity. The PNP added also that

a number of Crime Lab personnel were also given awards for their

contribution to the success of the unit.

The table reveals that the level of Performance of the Crime Lab

personnel along Work Output and Work Management are described to

be Outstanding (O) as evidenced by a mean rating of 4. 23 and 4.27

respectively. This shows that the personnel are competent, professional

and resourceful. They also give premium importance to time element and

are considered to be prudent, cautious and careful. This implies further

that they are functioning very well and very active in accomplishing their

duties and responsibilities. This is evidenced by their Annual

Accomplishment Report stated in the background of the study wherein all

28
requests forensic examinations were completed on time based on Citizen

Charter.

Along “work output”, it is observable that only the item: delivers the

report timely to the client is in VS with a mean of 3.95. This suggests that

the Crime Lab should give more attention in its timeliness of conveying

reports. According to PSSupt Mariano L. Tugguin (Ret.), he said “actually

reports are always on time and that we were informing the concerned

police officers to pick up or get it in our office because we don’t have

available personnel to deliver it, it is just that they were not coming right

away unless they have other business to do at the Police Provincial

Office”.

Next is the work management, wherein it is also noticeable that all

items are in outstanding level except item: follows recommended

standard procedures at all stages of the process are in VS with a mean of

4.18. This means that although the crime lab personnel are very particular

in the standard procedures to be followed at all stages of the crime scene

processing, there are still things that out of their control because of the

manpower constraints.

However, the level of Job Knowledge landed on Very Satisfactory

(VS) level only as backed up by a mean of 4.05. This still indicates a very

29
sound perception and high knowlegeability of the Crime Lab personnel

on their job.

It further implies that the discipline found in the ranks of the police

personnel is still felt, recognized and acknowledged as a lead institution

that solves complex crimes.

Problems encountered by Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office

Table 4 presents the problems encountered Ilocos Sur Provincial

Crime Laboratory Office in terms of personnel, materials, methods and

technical services.

Table 4. Problems encountered by Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory

Office.

Indicators Crime Police Percent Rank

Lab Investigat age (%)
Personn ors
el
f f
a. Personnel

a. 1 Lack of training, schooling 0 0 0%

and seminars attended
a. 2 Inadequate manpower 5 11 64% 1

a. 3 Poor incentive and lack of 0 0 0%

motivation
a. 4 Unprofessional when dealing 0 0 0%
with clients, irrespective of their
designations

30
a. 5 Lacks expertise in areas in 2 2 16% 2
which it is most needed on the
job
b. Materials

b. 1 Lack of operational fund 5 7 48% 3

b. 2 Lack of modern equipment 5 11 64% 1

b. 3 Insufficient facilities and 5 8 52% 2

supplies
c. Methods

c. 1 Lack of communication at 2 2 16% 1.5

crime scene
c. 2 Too many non-essential 4 0 16% 1.5
personnel in the scene
c. 3 Lack of administrative 0 0 0%
policies dealing with specialized
operations like scene
preservation and investigation
c. 4 Lack of coordination 2 0 8% 3
between crime lab personnel
and police.
c. 5 Lack of competence in the 0 0 0%
crime scene processing.
d. Technical Services

d. 1 Insufficient documentation 0 0 0%
of test results
d. 2 Evidence does not reach 0 0 0%
the Forensic Science
Laboratories on time
d. 3 Evidence doesn’t get tested 0 2 8% 2
on time
d. 4 Improper preparation of 0 0 0%
laboratory reports
d. 5 Delay in delivering of report 0 6 24% 1
to the client
Legend: f – frequency

31
 Generally, there are only ten problems that were identified by the

respondents namely: inadequate manpower; lacks expertise in areas in

which it is most needed on the job; lack of operational fund; lack of

modern equipment; insufficient facilities and supplies; lack of

communication at crime scene; too many non-essential personnel in the

scene; lack of coordination between crime lab personnel and police;

evidence doesn’t get tested on time; and delay in delivering of report to

the client.

In terms of personnel, “inadequate manpower” got the highest

percentage (64%). This suggests that the Philippine National Police Crime

Laboratory (PNPCL) should give special attention in the recruitment/hiring

of qualified personnel for the said unit to meet the ideal SOCO team

which is seven. It also prevails that they lacks expertise in areas in which it

is most needed on the job (16%). This is one of the very concerns of the

PNPCL because there were just few who are interested to apply.

According to PSSupt Mariano L. Tugguin (Ret.), in order to at least address

the problem in manpower, he said “all of us were multi-trained/ multi-

tasked. We were trained to sketch, photograph, marks evidence and

deals in all physical evidence found at the crime scene. In terms of crime

scene processing we were trained”. He also added, “Sometimes we are

requesting to Detailed Services (DS) from the other unit of PNP to augment

32
the Crime Lab but most of the time they won’t allow it because it will a lost

for them”.

As per “material”, it is observable that all the items under it namely:

lack of operational fund; lack of modern equipment; and insufficient

facilities and supplies were acknowledged as problems with a

percentage of 48%, 64% and 52% respectively. This indicates that the PNP

failed to give consideration on the needs of its different units. In terms of

modern equipment as it is noted as the highest among the three, it is

because such modern equipments are not available at the ISCLO.

According to SPO1 Lerwin G. Quitevis, one of the ISCLO personnel, he said

“All technical examinations except macro-etching, fingerprinting,

trajectory, drug examination and crime scene processing, are being

brought to the Regional Crime Laboratory Office 1 since they have more

available modern equipments there or if not sometime be brought at

Crame like medico-legal cases in case to case basis”. In terms of

operational fund, according to PSSupt Mariano L. Tugguin (Ret.) during his

time as the provincial chief, their monthly operational fund was just Php 5,

000.00 only. Although there was a support before from the Local

Government Unit (LGU) but in terms of supplies only like bond papers.

Next is the “methods” wherein lack of communication at crime

scene and too many non-essential personnel in the scene have the same

33
percentage (16%). Lack of coordination between crime lab personnel

and police was also identified as problem they encountered (8%).

Lastly in terms of “technical services” evidence doesn’t get tested

on time (8%) and delays in delivering of report to the client (24%) were

determined. This implies that the ISCLO failed to observe the required time

frame. In an interview conducted, PCINSP Valeriano P. Laya II, present

provincial chief of ISPCLO, affirmed that “there are cases where pieces of

evidence are to be brought to the regional office or sometimes to the

national headquarter for examination because of unavailability of

modern equipment wherein it take time for them to forward it back”.

(Personal Communication, January 12, 2019).

34
 CHAPTER IV

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter presents the conclusions drawn and the

recommendations proposed by the researcher.

Conclusions

Based on the findings of the study, the researcher came up with the

following conclusions:

1. The Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office is found to

be very sustaining and pleasing in accomplishing their

mission.

2. The Crime Lab personnel are highly professionalized and well

performers in providing efficient and effective quality

services to its clienteles.

3. On the other hand, it is made known that there is a

noticeable problem in the inadequacy of their manpower

and insufficiency of materials (funds, modern equipment,

35
 facilities and supplies)that needs to be given proper

attention by concerned authorities.

Recommendations

Based on the foregoing conclusions, the following are

recommended:

1. The Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office should

continuously provide satisfying services specifically in their

relative duties to find, secure, and process crime scenes to

maintain the very satisfactory accomplishment.

2. The Crime Lab personnel should always observe and maintain

competency in every endeavour of their profession. In

addition, the personnel should be sent or attend to different

seminars, trainings to further strengthen their credibility as

fortress of justice.

3. The Local Government Unit should at least support the Crime

Laboratory by providing additional budget for their

operations in order to continue provide quality services.

4. The proposed measures that was indicated in the manuscript

should be given an attention for implementation by the PNP

specifically the Crime Laboratory Group to address the

problems being identified.

36
37
 REFERENCES

Books

Bransford, J. D., Brown, A. L., Cocking, & R. R., eds. (2000). How people
learn. Washington DC: National Academy Press.

Brudan, A. (2010), Rediscovering performance management: systems,

learning and integration, Measuring Business Excellence, Vol. 14, No.
1, pp. 109-123.

Locke, E., A. & Latham G., P. (2002), Building a Practically Useful Theory of
Goal Setting and Task Motivation, American Psychologist, Vol. 57,
No. 9, pp. 705–717.

Saferstein, R. (2004), Criminalistics: an introduction to forensic science, 8th

edition, p.3-23.

Quantico (2003), Federal Bureau of Investigation. FBI Laboratory., VA: U.S.

Department of Justice.

Electronic or Online Sources

38
Patag, K.J. (2018). How forensic science is making breakthrough in the
Philippines. Retrieved on January 3, 2019 from
www.philstar.com/headlines/2018/03/27/1797029/how-forensic-
science-making-breakthrough-philippines (March 15, 2018).

Fenequito, A. (2018). PNP chief: Modern crime lab to improve police

efficiency. Retrieved on January 8, 2019 from
www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1021779, (January 17, 2018).

King, W. and Maguire, E. (2009). Assessing the Performance of Systems

Designed to Process Criminal Forensic Evidence', Forensic Science
Policy & Management: An International Journal, 1: 3, 159 — 170.
Retrieved on January 3, 2019 from
http://www.informaworld.com/smpp/title-content=t790627369.

Sison and Felipe, (2011). CSI a la PNP. Retrieved on December 27, 2019
from http://www.philstar.com/starweek-magazine/737614/csi-la-
pnp, November, 2017.

Manual

Circular Number 01-06 CLC – ADO – 01 (May 1, 2006) by PCSupt. Ernesto

V. Belen (Scene of Crime Operational Manual)

Philippine National Police Manual – DO – DS – 3 – 1 (March 2010) by PDIR

ANDRES G CARO II, et. al., (Philippine National Police Operational
Procedures)

APPENDICES

39
Appendices Page

A. Letter of Request

B. Letter to Respondents

C. Guide Questionnaire

APPENDIX

LETTER OF REQUEST

40
 CICOSAT COLLEGES
COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION
Lingsat, City of San Fernando, La Union

Date: August 8, 2018

PERCYDEL M. GALANG, PhD

Dean, MSCJ
CICOSAT Colleges
City of San Fernando, La Union

Dear Sir:

Greetings!

The undersigned is currently enrolled in Thesis Writing II, in partial fulfillment

of the requirements for the degree, Master of Science in Criminal Justice.
In fact, she was enrolled in Thesis Writing II during the second semester, SY
2017-2018 but she was not able to continue with her thesis because she
encountered problems in gathering the needed data using data mining
as suggested by the panel members during her proposal defense. She has
re-enrolled this first semester, SY 2018-2019 and tried seeking the assistance
of her adviser, DR. MICHELLE MABEL A. BAGTASO, but she is no longer
connected with CICOSAT Colleges.

In view of this, she finds it difficult to meet and discuss with her adviser, Dr.
Bagtaso since she no longer has constant communication with her.
Completing the program is imperative since it is a requirement in the
College she is currently teaching. Anent to this, she is hereby requesting
for a change of adviser and is seeking approval for PSSUPT MARIANO L.
TUGGUIN (RET.) to be her new Adviser. Please be informed that Sir Tugguin
has given his approval and has started sharing his expertise to her.

The approval of this request is hereby sought, confident that with his
expertise in the Crime Laboratory, which is the area of her research, he
could assist her in her predicament.

Thank you very much for your kind consideration.

Very truly yours,

Sgd. JENNIFER FABRO-GUITBA

41
 APPENDIX

LETTER OF REQUEST

CICOSAT COLLEGES
COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION
Lingsat, City of San Fernando, La Union

September 26, 2018

PCINSP VALERIANO P LAYA

Provincial Chief
Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office
Bulag, Bantay, Ilocos Sur

Sir;

Greetings!

The undersigned MSCJ student of CICOSAT COLLEGES is presently enrolled

in Thesis Writing II and conducting a research study entitled,
“PERFORMANCE OF THE ILOCOS SUR PROVINCIAL CRIME LABORATORY
OFFFICE”.

In this connection, she would like to ask permission from your good office
to be furnished a copy of the Annual Accomplishment Report covering
the years 2015 to 2017 as needed in her research. It is also requested that
the personnel be the respondents of the attached questionnaire which
serves as the data gathering tool.

Rest assured that the documents and all data gathered will be treated
with utmost confidentiality and will be used for research purpose only.

Thank you for your kind assistance and more power!

Very truly yours,

Sgd. JENNIFER FABRI-GUITBA

Researcher

Noted:

42
Sgd. PSSUPT MARIANO L TUGGUIN JR. (Ret.)
Adviser

APPENDIX

LETTER TO RESPONDENTS

CICOSAT COLLEGES
COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION
Lingsat, City of San Fernando, La Union

November 17, 2018

Dear Respondents,

In partial fulfillment of the degree, Master of Science in Criminal Justice, I

am presently undertaking a research study entitled “Performance of the
Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory Office”. It aims to determine the
performance of the Ilocos Sur Provincial Crime Laboratory in terms of their
accomplishments, performance of personnel and problems encountered
by the personnel.

In view of this, may I request you to be one of the respondents of my

study. Rest assured that the data I will gather will be held in strict
confidence and will be used solely for the purpose of this study.

Attached herewith are the checklists for you to accomplish including the
tools to be used as guidelines in answering.

Your cooperation to this request will be highly appreciated. Thank you so

much and may the Almighty God bless you.

Respectfully yours,

Sgd. JENNIFER FABRO-GUITBA

Researcher

Noted by:

43
Sgd. PSSUPT MARIANO L TUGGUIN JR. (Ret.)
Adviser

APPENDIX

GUIDE QUESTIONNAIRE

1. Level of Accomplishment

Direction: Please rate the Level of Accomplishment of the Ilocos Sur

Crime Laboratory Office in terms of crime scene processing;
evidence storage; and analyzing of evidence and information
dissemination, usage and utility by putting a check mark under
appropriate column using the scale below:
SCALE: 4 – Very Satisfactory
3 – Satisfactory
2 – Moderately Satisfactory
1 – Not Satisfactory

a. Crime Scene Processing 4 3 2 1

1. Regular and timely crime scene processing.
2. Regular and timely processing of Physical Evidence.
3. Regular and timely documentation of crime scenes
(sketches, notes, photographs, etc.).
b. Evidence Storage 4 3 2 1
1. Regularly submits properly physical evidence for
examination, analyses and storage.
2. Always store and secure evidence properly (prevent
alteration, destruction, or theft of evidence while
stored).
3. Properly dispose physical evidence every time when
appropriate.
c. Analyzing of Evidence and Information 4 3 2 1
Dissemination, Usage, and Utility
1. Continuously provide workable ways to expedite
and triage cases and analyses.
2. Always provide information that is understandable
for investigators, prosecutors and others.
3. Keeps on providing forensic information that is
serviceable for cases, prosecutions and clearances.

44
 2. Performance of Personnel of the Ilocos Sur Crime Laboratory Office
Profile: Crime Lab Personnel
Provincial/City Chief
Police Investigator
Other Client

Direction: Please rate the level of performance of personnel of the Ilocos

Sur Crime Laboratory Office along the four areas by putting a check mark
under appropriate column using the scale below:

SCALE: 5 – Outstanding
4 – Very Satisfactory
3 – Satisfactory
2 – Fair
1 – Poor

Level of Performance 5 4 3 2 1
a. Work Output
a.1 Make reports that contribute in some way to the
elucidation of the event.
a.2 Deliver the report timely to the client.
a.3 Ability to help the police and justice to
elucidate complex crimes, using science,
respecting human rights.
a.4 Make services available in a time to assist its
clients in their respective activities.
b. Job Knowledge
b.1 Able to incorporate new technologies applied
in the service.
b.2 Provides clear, objective, timely and focused
communications to any direct clients, peers and
superior.
b.3 Demonstrate an ability to transfer vision, mission
and objectives of the Organization into execution.
b.4 Establish a direct dialogical relationship with
each of the clients.
b.5 Shows creativity and initiative when tackling any
problems.
c. Work Management
c.1 Enforces organization’s policies and SOPs
without creating negative reactions.
c.2 Follow recommended standard procedures at

45
 all stages of the process.
c.3 Ability to properly categorize and file records
accordingly.
c.4 Displays the ability to work effectively with
clients.
c.5 Organized tasks in order of their importance and
ensure that work is completed on priority.

3. Problems encountered by Ilocos Sur Crime Laboratory Office along

the four areas.
Direction: Please identify the problems that are being encountered by
Ilocos Sur Crime Laboratory Office along the four areas by putting a
check mark:

Problems
a. Personnel
a. 1 Lack of training, schooling and seminars attended
a. 2 Inadequate manpower
a. 3 Poor incentive and lack of motivation
a. 4 Unprofessional when dealing with clients, irrespective of their
designations
a. 5 Lacks expertise in areas in which it is most needed on the job
a. 6 Others, please specify
b. Materials
b. 1 Lack of operational fund
b. 2 Lack of modern equipment
b. 3 Insufficient facilities and supplies
b. 4 Others, please specify
c. Methods
c. 1 Lack of communication at crime scene
c. 2 Too many non-essential personnel in the scene
c. 3 Lack of administrative policies dealing with specialized
operations like scene preservation and investigation
c. 4 Lack of coordination between crime lab personnel and
police.
c. 5 Lack of competence in the crime scene processing.
c. 6 Others, please specify
d. Technical Services
d. 1 Insufficient documentation of test results
d. 2 Evidence does not reach the Forensic Science Laboratories
on time

46
d. 3 Evidence doesn’t get tested on time
d. 4 Improper preparation of laboratory reports
d. 5 Delay in delivering of report to the client
d. 6 Others, please specify

47