FS 3

FORENSIC
CHEMISTRY
AND
TOXICOLOGY

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

 CICOSAT COLLEGES
NATIONAL HIGHWAY, LINGSAT,
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, 2500 LA UNION
TEL NO. (072) 242-26-98 / (072) 607-11-18
==========================================================================
FORENSIC CHEMISTRY AND TOXICOLOGY
1ST SEMESTER, AY 2023-2024

COURSE OVERVIEW

Welcome to CICOSAT COLLEGES for the first Semester, AY 2023-2024. You are
enrolled in the course, Forensic 3- Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology-Lecture and Laboratory.
This is a 5-unit course (3 units for the lecture and 2 units for the laboratory) in the College of
Criminal Justice Education program that will guide you in the investigation processes.
In order to widen your knowledge in Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology, theories are
expanded and explained in details. Experiments are provided that are useful and intended to
serve as your guide. It will introduce you to the fruitful device in the field of Forensic Science. It
aims to acquaint you on the importance of chemical test of compounds and the use of
instruments which are the basic tools in conducting investigation necessary in solving crimes and
resolving legal issues and case report writing.
This course enables you to complete the experimentation process step by step. Thus, your
active participation is important. Learn how to become resourceful and creative. Try to find other
alternatives in order to accomplish the process.
After completion of the course, you will be able to demonstrate the following: 1) an in-depth
knowledge and understanding of the stages in the practice of Forensic Chemistry; 2) the value of
Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology in criminal investigation and detection; 3} theories and
concepts that serve as framework of the study; 4) scope and procedures in Forensic Chemistry
and Toxicology analysis; and 5) equipment used in the examination of Forensic and Toxicology
Analysis.

To ensure that you will successfully demonstrate all the desired competencies, the course
is given in four modules. Each module is divided into lesson topics and activities. Assessment
Tasks are given for you to better understand the concept and apply these in specific situations.
The Modules are as follows:

MODULE 1: The Nature and Scope of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology- This
module will enable you to learn a brief introduction of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology. You
will be able to know the simple definition, how it plays a very important role in the speedy
investigation and in the administration of justice. It includes roles of a Forensic Chemist.The Six
Golden Rules in the Practice of Forensic Chemistry are also discussed. Different units on the
crime laboratory are also discussed one by one, the different Forensic Laboratories in the
Philippines, physical evidence, chain of custody and dangerous drugs.
MODULE 2. Chemistry Cases- In this module Drug Analysis, Explosives and
procedures of paraffin testing is studies. Gunshot residue is also discussed.
MODULE 3. Toxicology and Evidence- This module focuses on the explaining
toxicology, poisons and biological and physical evidence
MODULE 4. Instrumentation and Legal Aspect-This module centers on the different
forensic instrumentation and their uses and how to write a case report.

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

 COURSE GUIDE
The semester is only for a period of four months, from August to December 2023. To
successfully realize the objectives of the course, you need to read thoroughly the modules and
the instructional materials and accomplish the given activities that serve as application of the
concepts., please be guided by the following:

1. Schedule your study time such that you accomplish the activities on the scheduled date of
submission.
2. Illustrative examples are provided for you to serve as your guide in working on the activities.
3. If you cannot fully understand the concepts and procedures, engage all other possible
resources available. There are video tutorials on YouTube that can help you further understand
the concepts.
4. In case these resources still cannot help, do not hesitate to contact me through SMS at
09105231935 or through email address at rhikaannarabe@gmail.com or via Facebook Messenger
(Group Chat) created for the class.
5. The Major Examinations schedule are posted and therefore you can study
beforehand.

MODULE 1

INTRODUCTION

This module will enable you to learn a brief introduction of Forensic Chemistry and
Toxicology. You will be able to know the simple definition, how it plays a very important role in
the speedy investigation and in the administration of justice. It includes roles of a Forensic
Chemist.The Six Golden Rules in the Practice of Forensic Chemistry are also discussed.
Different units on the crime laboratory are also discussed one by one, the different Forensic
Laboratories in the Philippines, physical evidence, chain of custody and dangerous drugs.
forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |
 “If the law has made you a witness remain a man of science. You have no victim to
avenge, no guilty or innocent person to ruin or save. You must bear witness in the limits of
science”

LESSON 1
INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC CHEMISTRY AND TOXICOLOGY
Forensic Chemistry is defined as that branch of Chemistry which deals with application of
chemical principles in the solution of crimes. Like the other forensic sciences, Forensic
Chemistry plays a very important part in the speedy investigation and in the administration of
justice.
Forensic Science is the marriage of science and law. Forensic professionals use their scientific
backgrounds to help law enforcement personnel solve problems.
Forensic Toxicology deals with examination of human internal organs, food samples and water
and gastric contents for the purpose of detecting the presence of poisonous substance, its dosage,
effects, and treatment.
HISTORY OF FORENSIC CHEMISTRY AND TOXICOLOGY
 Democritus-was probably the first chemist to study poisons, he communicated some of
his findings to Hippocrates.
 (1836) James Marsh- he was the first to use toxicology (arsenic detection) in a jury or
trial.
 (1851) Jean Servais Stas- a chemist professor from Brussels, Belgium, was the first to
successfully identify vegetable poison in body tissue.
 (1910) Edmund Locard-professor of forensic medicine at the University of Lyons,
France, established the first police crime laboratory.
Locard’s Exchange Principle: “Every contact leaves a trace”
 (1960) Lucas- He described the application of gas chromatography to the identification
of petroleum products in the forensic laboratory and discussed potential limitations in the
brand of gasoline.
 (1976) Zoro and Hadley- First evaluated the gas chromatography- mass spectrometry

ANCIENT ISSUES IN FORENSIC CHEMISTRY AND TOXICOLOGY

Poisons are employed by early Egyptians, Greeks and Romans
Poisons were used both for murder and as a means of execution, the philosopher
Socrates was condemned to death by drinking hemlock.
 Arsenic was a popular poison in Roman times. It was referred to as inheritance powder in
early France.
 The Blandy Trial of 1752 was the first instance of an actual chemical test for poison.
 Marsh Test, developed in 1836, was the first reliable analysis that could show
scientifically that arsenic was present in the body of a victim.
IMPORTANCE OF FORENSIC CHEMISTRY AND TOXICOLOGY
 Forensic science can solve mysteries surrounding deaths, whether the cause is natural or
foul play.
 It involves the examination of the specimens found in the crime scene like blood, hair,
and other types of fluid found that has connection to the perpetrator.
 It can allow the authorities to do positively identify the suspect in a crime to determine
exactly when and how a crime occurred.
forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |
IN OTHER WORDS;
The goal of forensic chemistry is to determine the provenance of a sample and link it to a
person or thing.
ROLES OF A FORENSIC CHEMIST
The work of a forensic chemist is divided into four stages, namely:
1. Collection or reception of specimen.
2. The actual examination of specimen.
3. The communication/ interpretation of the results
4. Court Appearance
6 GOLDEN RULES IN THE PRACTICE OF FORENSIC CHEMISTRY
1.GO SLOWLY: good work cannot be hurried, therefore take all the time necessary to make
the case complete, no matter how urgent it may appear or how pressing others may be for the
result; it is generally possible to adjourn a case if work cannot be finish in time.
2. BE THOROUGH: make a careful and minute examination of everything and do not be
satisfied with a qualitative analysis if a quantitative one be possible; it always pays to do too
much rather than too little and it is difficult to foresee what will not be required in court.
3. TAKE NOTES: keep a full, neat and clear record of everything seen and done.
4. CONSULT OTHERS: many cases will lead the expert into paths with which he is not
familiar, and when this happen, he should consult those who are most likely to know.
5. USE IMAGINATION: this is somewhat hazardous advice, since an expert with a vivid and
uncontrolled imagination is a most dangerous person, since an expert with a however, which
enables inferences and deductions to be made from slender and incomplete premises is often
very useful. In writing the report the imagination must be kept well in hand and the expert
should remember that what to him may be merely a helpful working hypothesis is liable to be
taken by others for more than its true worth and to be adopted by them as a final explanation.
6. AVOID COMPLICATED THEORIES; the simplest explanation is the most likely to be
the right one.
DIFFERENT UNITS IN THE CRIME LABORATORY
1. Physical Science Unit- identification of drugs, glass, paint, explosives and soil using
chemicals tests and modern analytical instruments.
2. Biology Unit- identification and grouping of dried bloodstains and other body fluids,
comparison of botanical materials such as woods and plants.
3. Firearms Unit- examination of firearms, discharged bullets, cartridge cases, shotgun
shells and all types of ammunition. Garments and other objects are also examined in this
unit to determine the presence of discharge residues and to approximate target distance.
4. Questioned Document Examination Unit- examination of handwriting and typewriting
on questioned documents to ascertain authenticity and/or source. It includes also the
analysis of paper and ink and examination of indented writings, obliterations, erasures
and burned or charred documents.
5. Photography Unit - aids in the preparation photographic exhibits for courtroom
presentation using highly specialized photographic technique of infrared, ultraviolet and
x-rays.
6. Toxicology Unit - examination of body fluids and organs for the presence or absence of
drugs and poisons.
7. Latent Fingerprint Unit- processing and examination of evidence for invisible or latent
fingerprints.

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

8. Polygraph Unit - applies the techniques of criminal investigation and interrogation.
9. Voiceprint Analysis Unit - where telephoned threats and tape- recorded messages are
examined using an instrument, the sound spectrograph, that transforms speech into a
visual graphic display called voiceprint.
10. Evidence Collection Unit- dispatches specially trained personnel
(civilian/police) to the crime scene to collect and preserve physical evidence.

LESSON 2
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE AND CHAIN OF CUSTODY

Physical evidence cannot be intimidated. It does not forget. It sits there and waits to be
detected, preserved, evaluated, and explained.
Herbert Leon Macdonell

PHYSICAL EVIDENCE- Refer to any material that would be present at a crime scene,
on the victims, or found in a suspect’s possession. It is also called real evidence-any kind
of object associated with the investigation, but it must be a tangible item
TRACE EVIDENCE- Refers to any material that is found in small but measurable
amounts, such as strands of hair, fibers, or skin cells.
IMPLICATIONS OF PROPER EVIDENCE PROCESSING TO FORENSIC
EXAMINATION:
1. To obtain the maximum information upon which scientific examination shall be based.
2. Unaltered, unspoiled, or unchanged specimens in the course of handling would provide
more and better scientific information upon examination.
WHEN IS THE COLLECTION OF EVIDENCE ACCOMPLISHED?
After the search is completed, the rough sketch finished and photographs taken-
GOLDEN RULE IN INVESTIGATION

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

PRINCIPLES TO BE OBSERVED IN HANDLING PHYSICAL EVIDENCE?
1. The collected evidence should reach the laboratory in same condition as when it was
found.
2. The quantity of specimen shall be adequate.
3. Submit a known or standard specimen.
4. Keep each specimen separate from others.
5. Mark or label each piece of evidence for positive identification.
6. Maintain chain of custody of evidence.

CHAIN OF CUSTODY
 The movement and location of physical evidence from the time it is obtained
until the time it is presented in court.
 The chronological documentation or paper trail, showing the seizure, custody,
control, transfer, analysis, and disposition of evidence, physical or electronic.

COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION GUIDELINES FOR THE FOLLOWING

TYPES OF EVIDENCE?
Biological Evidence:
1. Blood Stains
2. Seminal Stains
3. Hairs
4. DNA Evidence
Trace Evidence:
5. Glass Fractures
6. Fibers
Latent Fingerprints
8. Paints
9. Arson Evidence
10. Explosive Evidence
11. Tool Marks
Other Trace Evidence:
Bodily fluids
Plant material
Paint chips or transfers
Soil
Hairs
Paints (automotive and architectural)
Headlamp Filaments
Footwear and Tire Impressions
Physical Matches
Acids/Bases
Other Physical Evidence:
12. Seized Drugs
13. Poisons

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

 14. Firearm Evidence
15. Questioned Documents

BIOLOGICAL EVIDENCE
1. BLOOD
A. Liquid Blood Samples

1.Pick up on a gauze pad; clean sterile cotton cloth; air dry.

2. Do not dry the blood-stained materials directly under the sunlight; electric fan.
3. Separately place in a paper bag.

4. Bring along with the stained material unstained portion to serve as control in
the analysis.
B. Dried Blood Stains

1. On clothing - wrap the items in clean paper, place in a brown paper bag or box; seal
and label container.

2. On small solid objects - send the whole stained object to the laboratory.

3. On large solid objects - cover the stained area with clean paper; seal the edges down
with tape.

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

 SANDWICH METHOD

B. Dried Blood Stains

4. For immovable or large objects - scrape stain onto a clean piece of paper; fold,
and place in an envelope. Get also unstained portion as control.
DRUGGIST FOLD

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

 3

5
5. Do not scrape dried blood stain directly into evidence envelope. Scrape using a freshly
washed and dried knife or similar tool.
How to do a Paper Bindle
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B. Dried Blood Stains
6. Do not mix dried stain. Place each in a separate envelope.
7. Never attempt to wipe dried stain from an object using a moistened cloth or paper
2. Seminal Stains
a. On clothing, blankets and sheet - air dry.
b. Wrap in paper and package in paper bags.
c. Do not use plastic bags
3. Hair Strands
a. Have the person bend over a large clean paper, rubbing or massaging their hands through
the hair so loose hair will fall.

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

b. Gather more hair by plucking them from representative areas all over the head using the finger
or tweezers. 50-100 strands with roots.
c. Do not cut the hair. In rape cases, comb the victim’s pubic region prior to collecting standards
- 30-60 strands.
d. Obtain known hair samples from victim, suspect, any other possible sources.
e. Same method is used to collect hairs from other body parts.
For the suspect, gather hair from all parts of the body even though there may only be an interest
in hair from the head at that time.
f. Attached in dry blood/caught in metal or a crack of glass - leave hair intact on the object.
g. Small objects - wrap and seal in an envelope.

h. Large objects - wrap the area containing the hair in paper.

4. DNA Evidence
Biological Samples for DNA Analysis Quantities
Whole blood/Blood stains 1-2 ml/1 gram
Saliva/Buccal Scrapings 4 cotton buds
Semen/Seminal Stains 3 swabs
Urine 100 ml
Hairs with Follicles or Root 2-5 pcs
Muscle Tissues and Cells 15 mg each
Bones and Organs 1-5 grams
Sperm Cells 3 swabs
Dried Tissues 100 mg
DO’S AND DON’TS IN THE HANDLING AND PRESERVATION OF BIOLOGICAL
EVIDENCE FOR DNA ANALYSIS.
DO’S
1. Ensure proper chain of custody.
2. Proper preservation and documentation for identification during court presentation.
forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |
 3. Have separate containers for different samples.

4. Place blood or liquid tissues in spill-proof containers.

5. Immediate extraction of DNA samples from the biological evidence

6. Materials in contact with the samples should be sterile.
7. Always wear gloves and additional protective device when appropriate.

8.Blood samples in liquid form must be stored frozen or placed in an ice pack.

DON’T’S
1. DNA test is very sensitive and vulnerable to contamination by other DNA sources. Avoid
contamination with other human DNA.
2. Do not handle samples with bare hands.

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

3. Avoid long-term storage of tissues.
4. No ice is required and dry ice should never use to cool the tube of blood.
5. Do not mouth pipette any body fluid regardless of the source.

6. Avoid drying of wet stained garments under direct sunlight or exposing it to an electric fan.
7. Do not collect a wet garment or garment with a wet bloodstain in a sealed
air-tight container.
8. Do not use plastic bag in the collection of blood specimen.

If the amount of DNA specimen to be collected is too small, focus on the tip of the cotton.

Also swab the immediate surrounding of the specimen to serve as control. This will
determine whether there is background contamination.

HOW TO MAKE AN IMPROVISED COTTON TOP

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%3DkgJWN8GDoAmQCw7j%26fbclid%3DIwAR2J8iaZiYc-

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

FlT5q6hmZeAR9TQMiquY4ZDRJ1hHfcItrQb2YhVA2pVW7Ps&h=AT1dvEzY3zE1I0NV
SyQm20oOwLJkWAdielwh4uklGtkVjU0StVZlg1rQPGzPBJRx8DYYedK4qwgQP9o6BpL
dlwiVXdGLZO8qwEhPIoKxOtVNRXVroCvGnkS3a6iO-D564_Wgjw

2. HOW TO PROPERLY SWAB DNA EVIDENCE AT THE CRIME SCENE

Collection Procedure for Physical Evidence Containing Saliva

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

 FINGERNAIL SCRAPING

5.Glass Fractures/Fragments
a. Shoes, clothing other objects. Wrap in paper.
b. In a hit-and-run scene. The search should not be limited to the point of impact.
c. Glass from different
Locations - keep in different containers.
d. Small glass fragments – place in paper packet, then in pill boxes or film cans.
forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |
e. Large glass fragments – place in boxes. Separate individual pieces with cotton or tissue to
prevent breakage of damaged edges. Seal and mark the box containing them.

6.Fibers
a. Large threads or fibers - pick up with the fingers, place in a paper packet and then
place in another paper envelope.

b. Never place loose fibers directly into a mailing envelope. They can be lost.

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

 c. Short or few fibers - wrap the area or the item containing the fibers in paper.
d. Recovered fibers or threads – send all clothing of suspects to the laboratory.
7. Latent Prints and Standard Fingerprints
Latent prints on paper, glass, metal or other smooth surfaced objects.
a. Touch as little as possible and only in areas least likely to contain
identifiable latent print
b. While gloves or handkerchiefs may be used to pick-up exhibits avoid wiping off any
print.
d. Lifted latent prints (fingerprints, palm prints)

- mark at the back portions of the lifting tapes. (date, time, place of collection, case
no., name, signature of collecting officer and of at least two witnesses.
e. Standard fingerprints –
Complete ridge detail should be clearly, neatly recorded. Don’t use stamp pad and other
ordinary ink.
f. Containers of specimen may conceal fingerprints so dusting them is a must.
8.Paint
a. Paint on the garment (hit-and-run victim) - mark garment and carefully wrap by
rolling it in paper.
b. Obtain samples from all areas showing fresh damage on suspected vehicles. The paint
may be different in type or composition.
c. Flake-off or otherwise scrape or chip the paint off, using a clean knife blade
Carefully wipe the blade before collecting each sample. Collect all layers down to the
metal.
d. Place each sample in a separate container.
e. In hit and run cases, flake off chips or scrape paint from the vehicle, including
transferred paint.
f. Keep each specimen separately. Do not place samples directly into envelope - place
into paper packet/pill box first.

9.Arson Evidence
a. Collect materials from the lower layer with apparent traces of gasoline/other
incendiary.
Pack materials collected from separate areas in separate containers.
Best container for arson evidence is clean tin can with cover.

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

 c. Volatile liquids in open containers - pour a small amount of the material into a clean
glass vial with an air tight seal.
Do not use rubber-lined lids on plastic container.
d. Small sample of soils, woods, cloth, rags or paper, etc - place in small clean metal
cans, seal immediately to prevent evaporation.
10. Explosive Evidence
a.Find the focus of the blast and then get loose debris from it.
Remove additional material up to 3-5 inches deep.
b.Do not touch anything at the bomb scene unless cleared by the EODU expert.
11.Tool Marks
a. Preserve the tool marks found at the crime scene.
b. Secure the intact object bearing the tool marks.
OTHER PHYSICAL EVIDENCE
12. Seized Drug Evidence
a. Do not mix specimens even if they were found close to each other or look the same.
b. Put it in a container such as a pill box or a vial.
c. When using a vacuum cleaner, remove the particles from filter paper and place both of
them on a plastic bag.
d. Secure and mark the evidence bag with your initials, date, and time of collection.
e. Submit to the Forensic Unit within 24-hours as mandated by DDB Regulation No. 2
Series 1996, amending Board Regulation Nr. 3 Series 1979.
13.Firearm Evidence
a.Never submit a loaded gun to the laboratory.
b. Unfired cartridges may be left in the magazines provided the magazine is removed
from the gun.
c. A F/A with cartridge in the chamber - never ship by any method even if the weapon is
not cocked/on safety.
d. Never clean the bore, chamber, cylinder; never attempt to fire the gun before it is
examined.
e. Never pick up a weapon by placing a pencil or other object in the edge of the barrel.
f. Place weapons in strong cardboard, well packed.
g. Bullets, empty shells and firearms - properly mark with initials of the recovering
officer or the victim in the mouth or on the body.
h. Fired bullets - marked on the base and on the nose but never on the body.
14.Questioned Documents
a. In questioned documents, avoid putting staples or pins on the document.
b. For signatures:
– at least 7 standard specimen
- contemporaneous dates (5 yrs before and after the QD was executed).
c. For questioned handwriting and typewriting:
- at least 5 pages of standard specimens
- (most current) are to be submitted.
d. Combination of the collected and the requested/dictated standards for signature,
handwriting and typewriting.
e. Standard specimen should be in original copies.
f. Care should be taken not to fold or crumple the standard documents.

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

 g. When requesting for known handwriting do not allow the suspect to see the questioned
document.
15.Poisons
a. Leftover food and empty containers - place them in separate containers.
b. Never add any preservative to the samples.
c. Toxicological evidence contained in a glass bottle with lid – keep in an ice-filled container
during shipment.
Checklist for submitting evidence to the laboratory
Before submitting the evidence to the lab, the following checklist should be conducted:
(The answer to each question should be yes)
1. Did I collect all the available evidence in this case?
2. Did I collect sufficient amount of each type?
3. Was I careful not to alter the material in handling and in preparing it for transmittal to the
laboratory?
4. In packing:
a) Did I properly label each piece of specimen individually and make references that I can
identify later?
b) Did I wrap the various specimens separately to prevent contamination?
c) Did I pack the specimen properly?
d) Did I use a clean container for the specimen?
e) Did I secure properly the specimen in the container?
f) Did I seal it in such a manner as to prevent its being spilled open by accident?
g) Did I address the package properly?
IF ALL THESE PIECES OF EVIDENCE ARE PROPERLY COLLECTED,
HANDLED AND PRESERVED THEN THE CONDUCT OF FORENSIC
EXAMINATION WILL PROVIDE THE MUCH-NEEDED INFORMATION THAT MAY
LEAD TO THE IDENTIFICATION AND SUBSEQUENT CONVICTION OF THE
SUSPECT/S.

References:
Diangson, R.G. (2020) Special Crime Investigation with Legal Medicine
Revised Crime Laboratory SOCO Manual, Revised 2014.
Salangad, M.M. (2012) Crime Scene Investigation 1st Edition
Galero-Muftuoglu, E. (2015). Fundamentals of Criminal Investigation.
Amador Q.A. & Eeazar, S.B. (2022), Specialized Crime Investigation with Simulation on
Interrogation and Interview
Crime Scene Examiners Notes, The National Training Center for Scientific Support to Crime
Investigation 1992
Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation Manual, Revised 2010.
Field Manual on Investigation of Crimes of Violence and Other Crimes (2011)

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

 LESSON 3
DANGEROUS DRUGS

RA 9165- AN ACT ONSTITUTING THE COMPREHENSIVE DANGEROUS DRUGS ACT

OF 2002, REPEALING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6425, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE
DANGEROUS ACT OF 1972, AS AMENDED, PROVDING FUNDS THEREFORE, AND
OTHER PURPOSES
Also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002
Signed: June 7, 2002
Published: June 19, 2002
Took Effect: July 4, 2002
forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |
Article I
Definition of Terms
Section 3. Definitions. As used in this Act, the following terms shall mean:
(a) Administer - Any act of introducing any dangerous drug into the body of any person, with or
without his/her knowledge, by injection, inhalation, ingestion or other means, or of committing
any act of indispensable assistance to a person
in administering a dangerous drug to himself/ herself unless administered by a duly licensed
practitioner for purposes of medication.
(b) Board - Refers to the Dangerous Drugs Board under Section 77, Article IX of this Act.
(c) Centers - Any of the treatment and rehabilitation center for drug dependents referred to in
Section 34, Article VIII of this Act.
(d) Chemical Diversion - The sale, distribution, supply or transport of legitimately imported, in-
transit, manufactured or procured controlled precursors and essential chemicals in diluted,
mixtures or in concentrated form, to any person
or entity engaged in the manufacture of any dangerous drug, and shall include packaging,
repackaging, labeling, relabeling or concealment of such transaction through fraud, destruction
of documents, fraudulent use of permits,
misdeclaration, use of front companies or mail fraud.
(e) Clandestine Laboratory - Any facility used for the illegal manufacture of any dangerous
drug and/or controlled precursor and essential chemical.
(f) Confirmatory Test - An analytical test using a device, tool or equipment with a different
chemical or physical principle that is more specific which will validate and confirm the result of
the screening test.
(g) Controlled Delivery- The investigative technique of allowing an unlawful or suspect
consignment of any dangerous drug and/or controlled precursor and essential chemical,
equipment or paraphernalia, or property believed to be
derived directly or indirectly from any offènse.
(h) Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals – These include those listed in Tables I
and II of the 1988 UN Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic
Substances as enumerated in the attached annex, which is an integral part of this Act.
(i) Cultivate or Culture - Any act of knowingly planting, growing, raising, or permitting the
planting, growing or raising of any plant which is the source of a dangerous drug.
(j) Dangerous Drugs - Include those listed in the Schedules annexed to the 1961 Single
Convention on Narcotic Drugs, as amended by the 1972 Protocol, and in the Schedules annexed
to the 1971 Single Convention on Psychotropic Substances as enumerated in the attached annex
which is an integral part of this Act.
(k) Deliver - Any act of knowingly passing a dangerous drug to another, personally or otherwise,
and by any means, with or without consideration.
(l) Den, Dive or Resort - A place where any dangerous drug chemical and/or controlled is
administered, delivered, stored for illegal purposes, distributed, sold or used in any form.
Precursor and essential
(m) Dispense- Any act of giving away, selling or distributing medicine or any dangerous drug
with or without the use of prescription.

(n) Drug Syndicate - Any organized group of two (2) or more persons forming or joining
together with the intention of committing any offense prescribed under this Act.

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

(o) Employee of Den, Dive or Resort - The caretaker, helper, watchman, lookout, and other
persons working in the den, dive or resort, employed by the maintainer, owner and/ or operator
where any dangerous drug and/or controlled precursor and essential chemical is administered,
delivered, distributed, sold or used, with or without compensation, in connection with the
operation thereof.
(p) Financier - Any person who pays for, raises or supplies money for, or underwrites any of the
illegal activities prescribed under this Act.
(q) Illegal Trafficking - The illegal cultivation, culture, delivery, administration, dispensation,
manufacture, sale, trading, transportation, distribution, importation, exportation and possession
of any dangerous drug and/or controlled precursor and essential chemical.
(r) Instrument- Anything that is used in or intended to be used in any manner in the commission
of illegal drug trafficking or related offenses.
(s) Laboratory Equipment - The paraphernalia, apparatus, materials or appliances when used,
intended for use or designed for use in the manufacture of any dangerous drug and/or controlled
precursor and essential chemical, such as reaction vessel, preparative/purifying equipment,
fermenters, separatory funnel, flask, heating mantle, gas generator, or their substitute.
(t) Manufacture - The production, preparation, compounding or processing of any dangerous
drug.
(aa)PDEA- Refers to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency under Section 82, Article IX of
this Act.
(bb) Person- Any entity, natural or juridical, including among others, a corporation, partnership,
trust or estate, joint stock company, association, syndicate, joint venture or other unincorporated
organization or group capable of acquiring rights or entering into obligations.
(cc) Planting of Evidence - The willful act by any surreptitiously inserting, placing, adding or
attaching directly or indirectly, through any overt or covert act, whatever quantity of any
dangerous drug and/ or controlled precursor and essential chemical in the person, house, effects
or in the immediate vicinity of an innocent individual for the purpose of implicating,
incriminating.
(dd) Practitioner- Any person who is a licensed physician, dentist, chemist, medical technologist,
nurse, midwife, veterinarian or pharmacist in the Philippines.
(ee) Protector/ Coddler- Any person who knowingly and willfully consents to the unlawful acts
provided for in this Act and uses his/her influence, power or position in shielding, harboring,
screening
WHAT IS DRUG?
A drug is a chemical substance that brings about physical, emotional or behavioral
change in a person taking it.
Is any substance other than food or water that is intended to be taken or administered for
the purpose of altering, sustaining or controlling the recipients physical, mental or emotional
state.
WHAT IS DRUG ABUSE?
Drug abuse is the use of any chemical substance, licit or illicit, resulting to individual’s
physical, mental, or social impairment.
It may refer to any of the following practices:
 Using, without benefit or prescription, useful drugs which have the
capacity to alter the mood or behavior.

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

  Using drugs and substances for a purpose different from the one from which the drug
has been prescribed.
 Using drugs and substances having no legitimate medical application or purposes other
than research.
WHY SHOULD WE AVOID DANGEROUS DRUGS?
1. Ilegal- prohibited by law (RA 9165)
2. Health- damages our brain and body
3. Psycho-social- destroys one’s behavior and causes one to commit crime.
MOST ABUSED DRUGS
 Shabu
 Marijuana
 Inhalants
Origin of Drugs
 Natural - anything that comes from nature.
 Synthetic - anything that is produced artificially or processed in the laboratory.
Classifications of Drugs
1) STIMULANTS
 Also known as “uppers”
 Any of a group of drugs that excite the central nervous system. It increase
alertness, alleviate fatigue, reduce hunger and provide a feeling of well-being.
Ex. Cocaine, Methamphetamine (SHABU)
Immediate Effects:
 Dilated pupils
 Increase in blood pressure / Heart rate / Breathing rate / Body Temperature
 Involuntary muscle twitching
 Less hunger
 Slurred speech

 “SHABU” (METHAMPHETAMINE HYDROCHLORIDE)

 White odorless crystal or crystalline powder with bitter numbing taste.
 Known as “poor man’s cocaine”
 Taken by direct ingestion or inhalation, sniffing, injection and smoking.
Street Name: “S”, “shabs”, “ubas”,”sha”, “ice”,”bato”
Adverse Effects:
 Produces anxiety, tension, irritability, irrational behavior, talkativeness, and loss of
self- control.
 Produces anxiety, tension, irritability, irrational behavior, talkativeness, and loss of
self- control.
 Results in loss of appetite and inability to sleep.
 Euphoria, elation.
 Can lead to acute psychotic reactions, violent and destructive behavior and
recklessness that may result in accidents.
 Includes chest pain, irregularity of heart beat, elevated or lowered blood pressure,
evidence of weight loss, convulsion and death from cardiac arrest.
Long Term Effects

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

 Prolonged use or even a single exposure, especially if administrated intravenously, can
lead to manifestations of a full blown “psychosis” which is similar to schizophrenia
characterized by the presence of paranoid delusions, auditory and visual hallucinations. The
paranoia may lead to violent aggressive behavior.

CONTENTS OF SHABU
 Ephedrine - (Classified as Dangerous Drugs) Main ingredient of Shabu causing brain
damage
 Toluene – Chemical used for paints, adhesives, etc.
 Acetone – Nail cleaner
 Lithium Batteries – Cancer causing component
 Battery Acid – Corrosive chemical
 Drain Cleaner – Liquid Soap
 Hydrochloric Acid – (Muriatic Acid)
 Chloroform – Cancer causing solvent.
Meth Bugs/ Sore
The sores on the body from obsessively picking at the skin.

2) DEPRESSANTS
 also called as “downers” or “barbs”
 any drug or chemical that decreases the activity of any bodily function. The
term is most often used to refer to drugs that reduce the activity of the central
nervous system
Ex: Sedatives, Sleeping Pills, Tranquilizers
Side Effects and Long-Term Effects:
 Loss of body control may result to bone fractures
 Impaired blood pressure regulation and balance control
 Cognitive impairment, memory loss and pseudo-dementia
 Nocturnal urinary incontinence
 Worsening sleep
 Respiratory problems
 Dependency
 Over sedation may lead to death
 SLEEPING PILLS
 BENZODIAZEPINES – commonly known as tranquilizers and sleeping pills. They
are classified as short, medium and long acting. This relates to the length of the drug

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 action in the body. Length of action can also be influenced by the health of a
person’s liver, age and weight.
 A.K.A. Valium, Ativan, Nubain, etc.
3) HALLUCINOGENS
 Also called as psychedelics
 First developed as appetite suppressant.
 Any one of a large number of natural or synthetic psychoactive drugs that produce
marked distortions of the senses and changes in perception; drugs capable of
provoking changes in sensation, thinking, self-awareness and emotion; Alteration
of time and space perception and hallucination.
Ex: MJ, LSD, Ecstasy, Keta
Immediate Effects
 Hallucinations/illusions
 Faster heart beat and pulse rate
 Bloodshot Eye/blurred vision/Rapid Eye Movement (REM)
 Dry mouth and throat
 Forgetfulness/inability to think
 Altered sense of time/ disorientation
 Impaired reflexes, coordination and concentration
 Acute panic anxiety reaction
 “Food-trip” & sleepiness (MJ)
Long-Term Effects
 Psychiatric consequences
 Severe irritation of the nasal passages that may make a person prone to frequent nose
bleed.
 Renal damage, heart disease and strokes
 Injecting MDMA from contaminated needles may lead to risk of infections resulting
in inflammation of the blood vessels, infection of the heart valves, blood poisoning
and even AIDS. all of which can lead to death.
 MARIJUANA (CANNABIS SATIVA)
 Is an actual plant grown in may temperature parts of the world.
Effects
 Hallucinations/illusions
 Faster heart beat and pulse rate
 Bloodshot Eye/blurred vision/Rapid Eye Movement (REM)
 Dry mouth and throat
 Forgetfulness/inability to think
 Altered sense of time/ disorientation
 Impaired reflexes coordination and concentration
 Acute panic anxiety reaction
 “Food-trip” & sleepiness (MJ)
 ECSTASY( MDMA/3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine)
 a drug that affects the brain's chemistry by releasing a high level of serotonin, which
plays a role in regulating mood, energy level and appetite.
 KETAMINE Methylamino Cyclohexane)
 Fine and White crystalline powder. It can be in liquid, tablets or capsules forms.

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

Street Name: K, Special K, Super K, Kit-Kat, Ket, Vitamin K, K-hole, Bump of K, Honey Oil K,
Bump bottle
Effects:
 Disoriented behavior
 Impaired judgment
 Hallucinations
 Impaired coordination
 Possibility of being comatose
3)INHALANT
 Volatile chemical substances that contains psycho-active (mind/mood altering) vapors
producing a state of intoxication.
Ex: Glue and Adhesive Cement / Rugby / Super Glue
Effects:
 Prone to bleeding and bruises
 Loss of memory
 Difficulty in learning and seeing things clearly
 Loss of bodily control
 Cramps, pains and bad cough
BRAIN OF A DRUG USER

CT SCAN

REASONS WHY PEOPLE TURN TO DRUGS?

1) Family Problems
2) Peer Pressure/Curiosity
3) Weak Escape/ Desire to Escape from Reality
COMMONS SIGNS OF DRUG ABUSE

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

 1) Injection Marks of an Addict
2) Stealing items which can be readily sold for cash (to support a drug habit)
3) Changes in Mood – depending on the drug taken.
Example: depressed or becoming elated and euphoric
4) Association with known drug abusers
5) Wearing sunglasses constantly at inappropriate times (for instance, indoors or at night) or
only to hide dilated or constricted pupils but also to compensate for the eyes’ inability to
adjust to sunlight. Marijuana causes bloodshot eyes.
PENALTIES AND OFFENSES FOR DRUGS
1. The penalty/fine imposed on the maintainer, owner, and/or operator if the dangerous
drug be the proximate cause of the death of a person using the same in den, dive or resort
 Penalty of death
 Fine ranging from one million (1,000,000) to fifteen million pesos (15,000,000)
2. Apprehended using any dangerous drug for the second time
 Penalty of imprisonment ranging from six(6)years and one(1) day to twelve(12) years
 Fine ranging from fifty thousand pesos (50,000) to two hundred thousand pesos
(200,000)
3.Possession of five hundred (500) grams of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride
 Penalty of life imprisonment to death
 Fine ranging from five hundred thousand pesos (500,000) to ten million pesos
(10,000,000)
4. Importation or bringing into the Philippines any dangerous drug.
 Penalty of life imprisonment to death
 Fine ranging from five hundred thousand pesos (500,000)to ten million
pesos(10,000,000.00)
5. Employment of a den, dive or resort, who is aware that such place is used for the use of
dangerous drugs
 Penalty of imprisonment ranging from twelve (12) years and one day to twenty (20)
years
 Fine ranging from one hundred thousand pesos (500,000,000)
6. Possession of seven 7) grams of Morphine
 Penalty of imprisonment ranging from twenty (20) years and one day to life
imprisonment
 Fine ranging from four hundred thousand
 Penalty of imprisonment ranging from one(1)year and one(1) day to six(6) years
 Fine ranging from ten thousand pesos(10,000) to fifty thousand pesos(50,000)
7. Possession of two hundred(200) grams of Marijuana
 Penalty of imprisonment ranging from twelve(12) years and one(1) day to twenty(20)
years
 Fine ranging from three hundred thousand pesos(300,000) to four hundred thousand
pesos(400,000)
8. A practitioner who violates or fails to comply with the maintenance and keeping of the
original records of transactions on any dangerous drug
 Penalty of imprisonment ranging from one(1)year and one(1) day to six(6) years
 Fine ranging from ten thousand pesos (10,000) to fifty thousand pesos(50,000)
9. Possession of forty-five(45) grams of shabu

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |

  Penalty of life imprisonment
 Fine ranging from four hundred thousand pesos (400,000) to five hundred thousand
pesos(500,000)
10. Trading, administration, dispensation, delivery, distribution and transportation of controlled
precursor
 Penalty of imprisonment ranging from twelve (12) Years and one(1) day to
twenty(20)years
 Fine ranging from one hundred thousand pesos (100,000) to five hundred thousand pesos
(500,000)
References:
Books/Journals
A Primer on the Dangerous Drugs (Act RA9165), Cong. Tony CuencO,
Ainsworth, M. C. Inks and Their Composition and Manufacture,
R. Saferstein, Ed. Forensic Science Handboo Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice Hall,
pp.184-221

forensic chemistry and toxicology [ARABE, RA E.] |