Cebu goes high-tech in crime investigation

Manila, Philippines -  The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) switched to full operation its Cebu Regional Digital Forensic Laboratory and Cyber Training Laboratory, which would enhance the capability of law enforcers to investigate Internet-related crimes and boost the government’s drive against cyber criminality.

CIDG chief Director Samuel Pagdilao Jr. said the program would boost digital forensic capabilities, even as the country looks forward the implementation of its anti-cyber crime law.

“Expanding the capability of the CIDG in addressing cyber crime is also meant to help other law enforcement units and investigative agencies handling cases involving cyber prostitution, Internet fraud and illegal online gambling,” Pagdilao said. 

Pagdilao thanked Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia for funding the construction of the building, which houses the high-end forensic laboratory. 

He also thanked the US State Department for providing the laboratory with P2-million worth of digital forensic equipment and software through a grant program via the Anti-Terrorism Assistance Program.

The opening of the CIDG’s digital forensic laboratory will coincide with the launching of the first national summit of the Community Investigative Support (CIS), the CIDG’s nationwide network of anti-crime civilian volunteers.

The CIS, which has 15,000 strong members, is a non-government organization.

Pagdilao said the National Summit of the CIS aims to unite all its regional and provincial chapters in a single event that will also serve as a venue for both the CIDG and the CIS to formulate a joint program that will sustain the CIDG’s gains in its campaign against wanted persons, loose firearms and organized crime groups.