Republic of the Philippines

Department of the Interior and Local Government

National Police Commission
PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE
CRIME LABORATORY
Camp Crame, Quezon City
CIRCULAR
NUMBER_01-06_
CLC ADO - 01
SCENE OF CRIME OPERATION MANUAL

I. SCENE OF CRIME OPERATION (SOCO):

Scene of Crime Operation is a forensic procedure performed by
trained personnel of the PNP Crime Laboratory through scientific methods of
investigation for the purpose of preserving the crime scene, gathering
information, documentation, collection, and examination of all physical
evidence.
II. AUTHORITY:
II.1 Chapter 3, Section 24, paragraph c and Section 35 of RA 6975.
II.2 PNP CL SO # 01-95 dtd Nov 16, 1995
III. MISSION: The SOCO shall provide forensic expertise to criminal
investigation by preserving, securing, and if need be, by scientifically
reconstructing the crime scene for the collection, documentation, and
forensic examination of all collected physical evidence with the end in view
of establishing fact/s relative to a criminal incident.
IV. OBJECTIVES:
IV.1. To conduct forensic investigations through the methodical means
of collection, examination, preservation, and presentation of all evidence for
the final disposition of criminal cases.
IV.2. To enable the police investigating/line units to expeditiously
identify and arrest the criminal perpetrators through the collected and
examined physical evidence.
IV.3. To establish the facts before the competent courts based on
collected and examined physical evidence.
IV.4. To strictly adhere to the protocols governing forensic science.
IV.5. To progressively acquire new technology and human skills to
ensure that the operational capabilities shall be consistent with the
continuous and evolving threats to public safety.

V. SOCO FUNCTIONS:
V.1. It shall determine and delineate the crime scene.
V.2. It shall preserve and ensure the protection of the crime scene.
V.3. It shall conduct methodical search for all available evidence in
the crime scene.
V.4. It shall methodically document the crime scene.
V.5 It shall methodically collect and transport all available physical
evidence from the crime scene to the PNP Crime Laboratory for purposes of
appropriate forensic examinations.
V.6. As required, it shall present before any competent court and/or
any legally mandated agency its forensic findings and the expert testimonies
of the SOCO elements.
VI. GENERAL SOCO PROCEDURES:
VI.1 Preparation Prior to the Conduct of SOCO
VI.1.1. Ensure the availability of packaging and collection
materials necessary for typical search circumstance.
VI.I.2. Prepare the preliminary format for the paperwork
needed to document the conduct of the search.
VI.I.3.

Discuss upcoming search with the involved personnel.

VI.I.4. Make preliminary personnel assignments before arrival at

scene, if practicable.
VI.I.5. Consider the safety and comfort of search personnel.
Be prepared for probable impediments which maybe poised by
weather or terrain. Ensure that basic crime scene search equipments
are functional. These should consist of the communication, lighting,
first aid, and security equipments.
VII.6. Ensure that all SOCO Team elements tasked to enter the
crime scene must be wearing surgical gloves and other protective
gears as maybe necessary.
VI.I.7. Assess the personnel assignments normally required to
successfully process a crime scene and ensure that such assignments
are in keeping with the training, experience, attitude, and aptitude of
each individual.
VI.2. Crime Scene Approach
VI.2.1. Be alert for discarded evidence.
VI.2.2. Make pertinent notes about the condition of the Crime
Scene based on the systematic observation & scene assessment.

VI.2.3. Establish frame-of-mind to take control of scene

regardless of circumstance observed on arrival.
VI.2.4. Consider personnel safety.
VI.3. Preliminary Crime Scene Survey.
VI.3.1. The survey is an organizational stage to a planned
search.
VI.3.2. A cautious walk-through
accomplished by the Team Leader.

of

the

scene

must

be

VI.3.3. The SOCO Team Leader provides and ensures the

operational focus of the Team.
VI.3.4. Select appropriate narrative description techniques that
should provide answers to the 5 Ws & 1H.
VI.3.5. Organize methods
recognize special problem areas.

and

procedures

needed

to

VI.3.6. Identify and protect transient physical evidence.

VI.3.7. Make an extensive narrative notes on the physical and
environmental conditions of the crime scene based on the exact
locations of items found thereat and condition of the crime scene as
received from the investigator on case.
VI.4. Evaluation of Physical Evidence
VI.4.1. This evaluation begins upon arrival at scene and
becomes detailed in preliminary survey stage.
VI.4.2. Based on preliminary survey, establish evidence types
most likely to be encountered.
VI.4.3. Ensure that collection and packaging equipment is
sufficient for task at hand.
VI.4.4. Ensure that all personnel are aware of the great variety
of possible evidence.
VI.4.5. Focus first on the easily accessible areas in open view
and progress eventually to possible out-of-view locations.
VI.4.6. Consider whether the evidence appears to have
moved inadvertently.

been

VI.4.7. Evaluate whether or not the scene and evidence

appears intentionally contrived.
VI.5 Narrative description of the Crime Scene
VI.5.1. The narrative is a running, general terms description
of the condition of the crime scene.

VI.5.2. Photography supplements narrative description of the

crime scene.
VI.5.3. Do not permit narrative effort to degenerate into a
sporadic and unorganized attempt to recover physical
evidence.
VI.6. Crime Scene Photography / Videography
VI.6.1. Begin photographing the crime scene as soon as
possible.
log.

VI.6.2. Document the photographic effort with a photograph

VI.6.3. Ensure that a progression of overall, medium and closeup views of the scene is established.
and

VI.6.4. Photograph evidence in place before its collection

packaging.

VI.6.5. Photograph items, places etc., to corroborate the

statement of witnesses, victims, suspects.
VI.6.6. Take photographs from eye level, when feasible, to
represent scene as would be observed by normal view.
VI.6.7. Prior to lifting latent fingerprints, photographs should
be taken.
VI.7. Sketch of Crime Scene
VI.7.1. The diagram establishes permanent records of
items,
conditions and distance/size relationships diagram supplement
photographs.
VI.7.2. Number designations on sketch should be
with same number designations on evidence log.

coordinated

VI.7.3. The sketch should contain sufficient measurements and

details to be used as a model for drawn to scale diagram, or
indicate a disclaimer if not drawn to scale.
VI.8. Detailed Crime Scene Search
VI.8.1. Conduct search in a general manner and work to the
specifics regarding evidence items.
VI.8.2. Photograph all items before collection and enter
notation in photographic log.
VI.8.3. Mark evidence locations on diagram/sketch.
VI.8.4. Do not handle evidence excessively after

recovery.

VI.8.5. Seal all evidence containers at the crime scene.

VI.9. Physical Evidence Recording and Collection

VI.9.1.
collection.

Tag

and

photograph

evidence

in

place

before

VI.9.2. Methodically record the recovered evidence. Mark

evidence (mark item itself whenever feasible)
VI.9.3. Place identifying marks in evidence containers.
VI.10. Final Crime Scene Survey
VI.10.1. Discuss
completeness.
errors.

search

jointly

with

all

personnel

for

VI.10.2. Double-check documentation to detect inadvertent

VI.10.3. Check to ensure

before departing the scene.

all evidence is accounted for

VI.10.4. Ensure all equipment used in the search is gathered.

VI.10.5. Make sure possible hiding places or difficult access
areas have not been overlooked in detailed search.
VI.11. Turn-Over/Release of Crime Scene to Investigator-On-Case
VI.II.1. Ensure that appropriate inventory has been provided.
VI.II.2. Release the scene with the notion that there is only one
chance to perform the job correctly and completely.
VI.II.3. Release is accomplished only after completion of
final survey and proper documentation.

the

VII. SUPPLETORY PROVISIONS TO THE GENERAL PROCEDURES

VII.I. In clandestine laboratories and bombing cases/incidents, the EOD
should clear the area first and declare it secured prior to the conduct of
SOCO. Moreover, these are considered as special situations whereby the
Forensic Chemical Officer (FOCO) shall be tasked to undertake the initial
scene assessments and advice the SOCO Team Leader as to how the
sequence of the crime scene investigation shall be undertaken.
VII.2. In suspected and/or reported chemical, biological, radiological,
and/or nuclear (CBRN) situation, the SOCO Team shall directly coordinate
with the Special Rescue/CBRN Team of the Bureau of Fire Protection prior to
the conduct of crime scene investigation. This shall be the standard
operational procedure pending the capability acquisition of the PNP Crime
Laboratory for CBRN situation.
VII.3. In mass victim situation, the SOCO Team, in addition to its
fundamental function, shall act as the first responder of the Interim Disaster
Victim Identification Task Group (IDVI TG) of the PNP Crime Laboratory. It shall
immediately assess the forensic specialists needed to be deployed at the
crime scene and relay the assessed requirements to HQs PNP Crime
Laboratory.

VII.4. Situation/incidents may occur whereby the functional expertise of

a forensic specialist is critical and/or would provide better command of the
SOCO. The SOCO Team Leader must immediately take cognizance of these
situations and put to task the forensic specialist in assessing the situation and
recommending as to how the SOCO shall be sequentially conducted.
VII.5. The PNP Crime Laboratory strictly adheres to the cardinal forensic
protocol of objectivity albeit such adherence does not preclude the basic
human sensibilities and respect for the dead. The SOCO Team shall expedite
the transfer of a cadaver in the crime scene to an accredited morgue for
further forensic examinations after its position has been accurately sketched,
photographed, properly documented, and all other essential forensic
procedures needed to be performed at the crime scene had been
completed. Further, the SOCO Team shall exercise ethical judgment by
ensuring that no photograph of the cadaver shall be taken other than for the
purpose of criminal investigation
VIII. TYPES OF SEARCH
VIII.1. Quadrant or Zone search method

In this method, one searcher is assigned to a quadrant, then

each quadrant is cut into another set of quadrants.
VIII.2. Strip or Line search method

In this method, the area is blocked out in the form of a

rectangle. The searcher proceeds slowly at the same pace along
path parallel to one side of the rectangle. When a piece of
evidence is found, the finder announces his discovery and the
search must stop until the evidence has been cared of. A
photographer is called, if necessary. The evidence is collected and

tagged and the search proceeds at a given signal. At the end of

the rectangle, the searcher turns and proceeds along new lanes as
shown in the above illustration.
VIII.3. Spiral search method

In this method, the searchers follow each other along the path
of a spiral, beginning on the outside and spiralling in toward the
center.
VIII.4. Grid or double strip search method

The grid or double strip method of search is a modification of

strip search method. Here, the rectangle is traverse first parallel to
the base then parallel to the side. This is ideal for Disaster Victim
Identification (DVI) Operation.
VIII.5. Wheel search method

In this method of search, the area is considered to be

approximately circular. The searchers gather at the center and
proceed outward along radii or spokes. The procedure should be
repeated several times depending on the size of the circle and the
number of searchers. One shortcoming of this method is the great
increase in the area to be observed as the searcher departs from
the center. Another is the possibility of evidence contamination or
destruction with the likelihood that the searchers will step on them
as they converge at the center.
IX. SOCO TEAM ORGANIZATION
IX.1. Basic Individual Attribute
The Scene of Crime of Operation is considered as a specialized
type of police operation wherein PNP personnel may opt to take as
their Primary Police Occupational Specialization (POS). Being such,
designation to the SOCO Team shall be based on CIA (Conduct,
Industry, and Aptitude) Parameters.
IX.2. Training
All personnel projected to be detailed with the SOCO Team
must undergo the Scene of Crime Operation Course. The SOCO
Course shall be a mandatory course for all PNP Crime Laboratory
personnel mandated to be detailed with SOCO Team prior to their
detail with the different technical division and/or crime laboratory
office. They must also undergo mandatory training on basic First Aid
Course.
IX.3. Basic SOCO Composition/Tasks
IX.3.1 Team Leader
- Responsible for the performance and work product of the
SOCO and its individual members at crime scenes.
- Assume Control ensure safety of personnel and security at
scene, including the designation of a trained individual responsible for
assessing potentially hazardous conditions/environments at the scene.
- Conduct initial work-through for purposes of safety, making
preliminary survey, evaluation of potential evidence, and preparing a
narrative description.
- Designate command post location and ensure exchange of
information between search and investigative personnel.
- Determine search patterns and make appropriate assignments
for team members.
- Coordinate with other law enforcement agencies and make
sure a cooperative spirit is maintained.
- Ensure that sufficient supplies and equipment are available for
personnel consider shift planning.

- Control access to the scene and designate an individual to log

everyone into the scene.
Act as PIO/Spokesperson at the Crime Scene.
- Responsible for the consolidation/compilation of reports,
documents, and evidence gathered by the reinforcing SOCO Team
that provide support at the Crime Scene.
- Continuously re-evaluate efficiency of search during entire
course of operation.
- Release the scene after a final survey and inventory of the
evidence.
IX.3 2. Photographer
- Photograph entire area before it is entered.
- Photograph victims, crowd and vehicles.
- Photograph entire scene with overall, medium and close-up
coverage, using measurement scale when appropriate.
- Photograph major evidence items before they are moved.
Coordinate this effort with the Sketcher, Evidence Custodian and
Evidence Recovery Personnel.
- Photograph all latent fingerprints, and other impression
evidence, before lifting and casting is accomplished.
- Photograph blueprints, maps and previous photographs of
scene, as required.
- Take final photographs to show final condition as released.
IX.3.3 Sketcher
North.

- Diagram immediate area of scene. It must be oriented to the

- Set forth on sketch major items of evidence and coordinate

evidence nomenclature with Evidence Custodian and Evidence
Collectors/processors.
- Indicate adjacent buildings, rooms, furniture, and so forth, as
needed.
- Designate and label areas to be searched and advise team
leader and all other search members of nomenclature for designated
areas.
- Obtain appropriate assistance for taking measurements and list
assistant (s) on sketch.
- Ensure necessary administrative information, such as scale
disclaimer (not drawn to scale), is recorded on sketch.

IX.3.4. Evidence Log Recorder/Custodian

- Prepare evidence recovery log.
- Coordinate evidence nomenclature with the Sketcher,
Photographer and Evidence Collector/processors.
- Record all evidence.
- Receive all evidence
- Undertake evidence packaging and preservation
- Maintain chain-of-custody of evidences.
- Coordinate transmittal of evidence to the concerned
laboratory technical division for examination
IX.3.5. Driver/Security
- Coordinate with the supply PNCO to ensure that the vehicle is
properly maintained
- Provide physical security to the SOCO elements and
equipments
IX.3.6. Evidence Processor/Collector This generally refers to the
different forensic specialists, who by virtue of their specialization, are
necessary to identify, collect, examine, and present before the courts
evidence at the crime scene. The services of these forensic specialists
shall be attached to the SOCO Team depending on the SOCO
requirements of the reported crime scene. There are crime incidence
where not all forensic specialists are needed to process the scene.
IX.4. Forensic Specialists
Forensic Specialists refer to the PNP Crime Lab personnel who by
academic preparation, series of specialized trainings, and/or
occupational exposure had acquired the required technical expertise
in any of the following PNP Crime Laboratorys core competencies:
IX.4.1. Biological Science or any of its branches
IX.4.2. Physical Science or any of its branches
IX.4.3. Physical Identification
IX.4.4. Firearms Identification
IX.4.5. Fingerprint Identification
IX.4.6. Document Examination
IX.4.7. Polygraph Examination
IX.4.8. Forensic Photography

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X. SOCO EQUIPMENTS AND OTHER LOGISTICAL SUPPORT

X.1 SOCO Team Elements Uniform The individual elements uniform
shall be constituted by the following:
X.1.1 SOCO Uniform _ It shall be the UESB approved uniform
X.1.2 Personal Equipment Rig
X.1.3 Firearm
X.1.4 UV Blacklight/ 3 ALS/Polylite
X.1.5 Hand Gloves/shoe covers
X.1.6 Poncho (Raincoat with reflector)
X.2. Team Equipment - The SOCO Van must contain the following basic
equipments
X.2.1 Search Light
X.2.2 Medical Litter This shall be utilized by the SOCO Team in
moving the injured from the crime scene to the vehicle that would
transport it to the nearest hospital in the absence of first aid
responders.
X.2.3 Medical First Aid Kit This shall be standardized equipment
as part of the SOCO capability to respond to medical emergencies.
X.2.4 Radio Communication Equipment This shall be the
standard issued communication equipment to afford communication
between the SOCO Team and the Crime Laboratory Office.
X.2.5. SOCO Kit
X.2.6. PBI Kit
X.2.7 One (1) Long Firearm The SOCO Van shall have one (1)
long firearm with one (1) corresponding basic ammunition load as
team defense equipment to be handled by the security personnel.
XI. SUPPLETORY ADMINISTRATIVE RULES AND PROCEDURES
XI.1 Stand on the Tri-Media and Prescribed Relationship
The PNP Crime Laboratory as a part of the law enforcement
institution shall respect the inherent right to information of the public
albeit consequential to this fundamental respect is the affirmation that
objectivity shall govern the conduct of crime scene investigation.
Hence, the following are the prescribed rules on media inquiries:
XI.1.1 On crime scene, only the SOCO Team Leader is authorized
to provide answers to the inquiries from the media. The reply must only
state the available facts. The Team Leader must not, in whatever
manner, relay any information that could elicit multiple and subjective

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inferences or interpretations. In the absence of concrete objective

data, the Team Leader shall courteously beg off to answer
inquiries
and inform the media that the inquiries shall be answered after
laboratory examinations had been conducted and with clearance
from the criminal investigator on case and/or line or investigating unit
conducting the investigation.
XI.1.2 The SOCO Team Leader must exercise professional
maturity to ensure that his reply to the media inquiries must not in
whatever manner impede on the conduct of the criminal
investigation.
XI.1.3 Post Crime Scene Investigation inquiry from the media shall
be cleared first from the Director, PNP CL.
XI.1.4 The PNP Crime Laboratory recognizes the vital role that the
media play in enhancing the community awareness of protecting
and preserving the crime scene. Efforts in direct coordination with
the media shall be initiated for this purpose.
X1.2 Crime Scene Protection and Preservation Trainings The PNP
Crime Laboratory shall continuously conduct periodic crime scene protection
trainings for the first responders.
X1.3. Precedence of Authority The organic SOCO Team of the RCLO
or DCLO having responsibility over the area of incident shall be the Office
Primary Responsible (OPR) and reinforcing SOCO Teams from HQs PNP CL
and other RCLOs/DCLOs shall provide support.
X1.4 Coordination - Direct and lateral coordination with PNP units and
other law enforcement units for the purpose of crime scene protection,
preservation, and evidence collection is highly encouraged.
X1.5 Training Designs Periodic evaluation of the SOCO Program of
Instructions shall be undertaken to ensure that it is current and prospective.
XII. Effectivity: This circular shall take effect on May 1, 2006 and rescinds the
previous SOCO Manual.

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