Republic of the Philippines

NATIONAL POLICE COMMISSION

PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE
WESTERN SAMAR PROVINCIAL CRIME LABORATORY OFFICE
Camp Lukban, Maulong, Catbalogan City

MEMORANDUM

FOR : C, PLO SPPO

FROM : Chemistry Section, WSPLCO

SUBJECT : Respond to the Request for Technical Opinion on Paraffin Testing

DATE : September 15, 2020

1. Reference: Request for Technical Opinion on Paraffin Testing

2. In connection with the above cited reference please be informed that the undersigned is a Forensic
Chemist by profession and thus conduct Paraffin Testing. In this regard the undersigned give
opinion on the request cited above reference to the following facts, to wit:

a. Paraffin test is the determination of the presence of gunpowder residues in which a paraffin
cast of a person suspected of firing a gun is subjected to chemical analysis.

b. Firearms discharge can deposit gunpowder residues to a person at close proximity. Hand or
body parts close to the fired weapon may have gunpowder residue embedded to skin pores.

c. Rinsing with tap water may not remove the gunpowder residue but excessive perspiration or
washing of hands with the use of warm water or vinegar may remove the gunpowder residue
on the skin.

d. There are instances wherein a person who actually fired a gun will still give negative result to
the test because of several factors like;

i. Type of caliber of ammunition

ii. Length of the barrel
iii. Age of gun /efficiency of mechanism
iv. Direction of firing
v. Wind velocity and direction
vi. Humidity /percent moisture in air
vii. Use of gloves and when 72 hours has elapsed

3. For your information and guidance

NESMARK DAVE J JULIAN

Police Lieutenant
Forensic Chemist, WSPCLO

Noted by:

ARMAN OLIVARES DE VERA

Police Lieutenant Colonel
Provincial Chief, WSPCLO