PNP gets automated fingerprint ID system

Japan donated yesterday an automated fingerprint identification system (AFIS) worth P487 million to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

The system could boost the government’s crime prevention program.

The turnover coincided with the 60th anniversary of the PNP Crime Laboratory, headed by Chief Superintendent Ernesto Belen. The celebration was held at Camp Crame, the PNP’s headquarters.

Japanese Ambassador Ryuichiro Yamazaki, who turned over the system, said it will boost the Philippine government’s crackdown on crime. With the system, a police crime scene investigator could match a fingerprint in 30 minutes.

"I have not been at the real scene of (a) crime, but I imagine in many cases that it can be very, very ugly, making the collecting of fingerprints very difficult," said Yamazaki.

Yamazaki noted the AFIS signifies the expanding role of Japan’s overseas development assistance after more than 50 years since its commencement.