Exploring Forensic Firearm Examination Towards the Enhancement of the Practice in Forensic Firearm Examination

The principles of forensic ballistic examination of firearm identification adhere to absolute identity rather than a basis of similarity. This study aims to assess firearms examiners' exploration of forensic firearm examination to enhance practice. This study employs a descriptive research method using a semi-structured interview guide and a survey instrument. The respondents are criminologists assigned to different PNP forensic units and teachers/professors at various criminology schools and universities in Region VI. The mean and its corresponding description, as well as thematic analysis, were used to analyze and interpret the data to answer the specific objectives. The findings reveal that the examination of a test and a fired bullet is influenced by three major factors: time constraints, the availability of facilities, equipment, and firearms examiners' expertise. The problems encountered during forensic firearms examinations are identified. The seriousness of forensic firearms examinations ranges from very serious to extremely serious. The strategic approach to accelerating forensic ballistic examination results hinges on addressing key challenges related to resources, standardization, and technological integration. Thus, the developed policy brief suggests enhancing crime scene management by implementing more stringent regulations and providing specialized training for first responders to preserve evidence integrity.