The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Forensic Division will examine the skeletal remains found in an excavation site at the compound of the Department of Justice (DOJ) in Padre Faura, Manila.
In an interview with the reporters, DOJ Usec. Brigido Dulay said one whole skull and fragments were recovered on Thursday, Nov. 24.
“At this point in time, we leave [it] for the forensics first. Tignan muna nila sapagkat tayo ay ordinaryo lamang na mamamayan, wala tayong expertise sa pag-analyze ng ganitong bagay. Ang may expertise ay ang ating NBI forensic. Bigyan natin sila ng konting panahon para matignan talaga ang detalye dito sa nahanap natin,” he said.
Dulay said the excavation where the remains were found is for the construction of the DOJ's prosecution building.
In a separate interview, Justice Secretary Jesus ‘Boying’ Remulla said this is not the first time that human remains were found inside the DOJ, adding that the remains recently retrieved might be from World War II.
“When the war happened, open city talaga ang Manila eh. So, we really don’t know if [it is a] very old remains or how old they are. But there’s a history of course,” he said.
Remulla said he would ask Dulay if there is a need to probe more into the matter.
“Kasi baka mamaya we may stumble more remains. Tignan natin,” he added.
