PAO forensics’ head Erwin Erfe hits back at Benigno Aquino III

MANILA, Philippines — Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) forensics head Erwin Erfe yesterday hit back at former president Benigno Aquino III for questioning his credentials, saying he once helped in the probe on the assassination of former senator Benigno Aquino Jr.

During a congressional investigation on deaths allegedly caused by Dengvaxia vaccination, Aquino criticized Erfe for brandishing a professional certificate that looked like something produced along Recto Avenue, an area known for establishments making fake documents.

Aquino also slammed Erfe and PAO chief Persida Acosta for linking the deaths of 22 children to the Dengvaxia immunization program, which he implemented during his presidency.

Erfe defended his expertise, which include being a fellow at six forensic organizations including the American College Forensic Examiners Institute (ACFEI) in the United States.

Aquino’s spokesperson Abigail Valte reportedly said ACFEI has a questionable background, following reports that a woman without background in medicine became a member after paying a fee.

Erfe reminded Aquino  that in 2004, he helped review the evidence on the assassination of the elder Aquino, who was assassinated in 1983 upon his return to the country from exile in the US.

Erfe said the Aquino camp’s lawyer, former senator Rene Saguisag, presented their findings before the Supreme Court in response to a petition reopening the murder case.

“In 2004, we were tapped by the Public Attorney’s Office to study the forensic analysis of the assassination of senator Ninoy Aquino and the former president knows that,” Efre said in an interview over dzMM.

“I’m wondering why they are now raising questions,” said Erfe, referring to his background.

Erfe has been practicing his profession for 20 years, 14 years under PAO.