DNA testing is becoming increasingly popular as a way to determine one’s ancestry and health risks. In the Philippines, DNA tests are now available at an affordable cost.
The price of a DNA test in the Philippines can vary depending on the type of testing being done.
For example, a basic paternity test may cost around PHP 15,000 while more extensive tests such as those used for cancer screening or to identify inherited diseases can cost more.
Understanding DNA Testing
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that carries most of the genetic instructions used in the development, functioning, and reproduction of all known living organisms.
DNA testing involves analyzing a person’s genetic material, typically extracted from samples like cheek swabs, hair, or blood.
The tests can reveal a wealth of information about a person’s ancestry, familial relationships, and potential health risks.
What is the Purpose of Taking a DNA Test?
People choose to have DNA testing for a variety of reasons, including:
1. Paternity or Maternity Verification: To confirm biological parentage, often used in legal disputes, adoption cases, or for personal knowledge.
2. Ancestry and Genealogy: To trace one’s roots, understand ethnic origins, and build a comprehensive family tree.
3. Sibling or Relative Testing: To confirm the biological relationship between two individuals, such as siblings or cousins.
4. Genetic Health Risks: To identify genes associated with certain diseases or conditions, enabling individuals to understand their risk factors and take proactive steps towards their health.
5. Newborn Screening: To detect genetic disorders early in newborn babies, allowing for immediate treatment or management of the condition.
6. Forensic Testing: For crime investigations, where DNA evidence found at a crime scene can be tested to identify potential suspects or confirm the presence of a specific individual.
7. Immigration Cases: To establish biological relationships in family-based immigration cases when other documentary evidence is insufficient.
8. Inherited Traits: To understand certain inherited traits or features, such as why a person has a particular eye color or how likely they are to have curly or straight hair.
9. Carrier Screening: For couples planning to start a family, carrier screening can identify potential genetic disorders that parents could pass on to their children.
10. Pharmacogenomics: To understand how a person’s genetic makeup can influence their response to certain medications, helping healthcare professionals personalize treatment plans.
Clinics and Hospitals for DNA Testing / Paternity Testing in the Philippines
Here are some clinics and hospitals in the Philippines that offer DNA testing services:
Metro Manila
1. DNA Genes PH: Based in Pasig, Metro Manila, they offer a range of DNA testing services. This is a Philippine-based DNA collecting center which is partnered with Japan-based DNA testing company.
Address: Unit 1121, 11th Floor, City & Land Mega Plaza Bldg., ADB Avenue cor. Garnet Road, Ortigas Center, Pasig
Phone Number: +63 2 8 650 5480; +63 926 616 7659; +63 998 624 9502
Website: http://dnaphils.com/pages/home/
Email: info@danaphils.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DNAgenesph/
2. DNA Analysis Laboratory: Located in University of the Philippines Diliman, this lab specializes in DNA research and offers DNA testing services.
Address: DNA Analysis Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, Miranda Hall, Corner Quirino and Velasquez Streets, Diliman
Phone Number: +63 918 913 6284
Email: dnalab.updiliman@up.edu.ph
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DNAForensicAndEthnicity/
3. Hi-Precision Diagnostics – Taft: Located in Metro Manila, this clinic offers a variety of DNA testing services including DNA Paternity Test, DNA Maternity Test, DNA Sibling Test, DNA Uncle Test, and more.
Phone Number: +63 287417777
Website: https://www.hi-precision.com.ph/
Email: info@hi-precision.com.ph
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hpdiagnostics
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiprecisiondiagnostics/
Address 1: Kalaw – San Luis Terraces
Rm. 102 Ground Floor San Luis Terraces 638 155, Ermita, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines 1000
Phone Number: (02) 8404-1441; (02) 8526-2329; (02) 8405-0151; (63) 933-819-3852; (63) 917-578-2256
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday – 6 AM to 4 PM
Address 2: Lacson – Pacific Skyloft Building
Mezzanine and 2nd floor, Pacific Skyloft Bldg., 1160 Governor Forbes, 1008 Lacson Ave, Sampaloc, Manila, 1008
Phone Number: (02) 8741-7777; (63) 933-869-0035; (63) 917-628-9073
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday – 6 AM to 4 PM; Sunday – 6 AM to 12 PM
Address 3: Sta. Ana – Rivergreen Residences
G/F Rivergreen Residences, Zone 97, 2217 Pedro Gil St, Santa Ana, Manila, Metro Manila
Phone Number: (02) 8661-6244; (63) 917-803-2504
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday – 6 AM to 3 PM
Address 4: Taft
1852 Taft Ave, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila
Phone Number: (02) 8405-0039; (02) 8405-0135; (63) 943-135-1861
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday – 6 AM to 4 PM
Cebu
1. Hi Precision Diagnostics: Hi Precision Diagnostics has numerous branches across the country, including several located in various regions in the island of Cebu.
Phone Number: +63 287417777
Website: https://www.hi-precision.com.ph/
Email: info@hi-precision.com.ph
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hpdiagnostics
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiprecisiondiagnostics/
Address 1: Hi-Precision Diagnostics – Cebu Main (J. Llorente St, Cebu)
Wes Bldg., 28 J. Llorente St, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu
Phone Number: +63 32 888 2222; (63) 917-770-3638; (63) 933-829-4479
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday – 6 AM to 5 PM; Sunday – 6 AM to 3 AM
Address 2: Hi-Precision Diagnostics – Osmeña Blvd.
Medalle Building, G/F, Osmeña Blvd, Cebu City, Cebu
Phone Number: 63 32 255 4131
Address 3: Hi-Precision Diagnostics – Talisay
South National Highway, Toledo – Tabunok Rd, Talisay, 6045 Cebu
Phone Number: +63 32 888 2222;(63) 0917-712-6562; (63) 0933-829-4499
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday – 6 AM to 5 PM; Sunday – 6 AM to 2 PM
Address 4: Hi-Precision Diagnostics – Mandaue
Diamond Plaza, Mandaue City, Cebu, Mandaue City, Cebu
Phone Number: +63 32 888 2222; (63) 917-712-6551; (63) 933-829-4496
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday – 6 AM to 5 PM; Sunday – 6 AM to 2 PM
Address 5: Hi-Precision Diagnostics- Mactan, Lapu-Lapu
MV Patalinhug Avenue, Lapu-Lapu City, 6015 Cebu
Phone Number: +63 32 888 2222; (63) 917-7126568; (63) 933-8294495
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday – 6 AM to 5 PM; Sunday – 6 AM to 2 PM
Address 6: Hi-Precision Diagnostics – Naga
National Highway Rd, City of Naga, Cebu
Phone Number: +63 32 888 2222; (63) 922-811-4912
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday – 6 AM to 4 PM
Address 7: Hi-Precision Diagnostics – Liloan
North Road, Looc, Central Nautical Hwy, Bayan ng Liloan, Lalawigan ng Cebu
Phone Number: +63 32 888 2222; (63) 917-5178204; (63) 933-8294494
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday – 6 AM to 4 PM
Davao
1. SCDL (The Specialists Clinic & Diagnostic Laboratory): SCDL is a clinic and laboratory that specializes in outpatient care and drug testing. It was established in 2003 in Parang, Maguindanao and has since expanded to six branches in different locations in Southern Philippines including:
- General Santos City
- Cotabato City
- Midsayap
- Kabacan North Cotabato
- Parang Maguindanao
- Davao City
Davao Address: Beechnut Square, Sta. Ana Avenue, Poblacion District, Davao City
Phone Number: 082 295 6894 / 082 284 1978; 094 3397 4104
Website: http://www.scdlph.com/main/
Email: info@scdlph.com; med_laboratory@yahoo.com
2. Regional Forensic Unit 11 (RFU 11): RFU 11 is located in the Police Regional Office Davao Branch that has a DNA laboratory.
It’s the first of its kind in Mindanao that provides forensic services to local police departments in the region.
RFU 11 offers comprehensive analysis of biological evidence, including DNA testing and analysis, for both criminal and civil cases. Many civilian clients avail their services primarily to conduct paternity and maternity tests.
Address: Candelaria, Talomo, Davao City, Davao del Sur
Phone: +63 943 405 6807; +63 968 879 9574
Email: crimelab_davao@yahoo.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/regionalforensicunit11/
3. Hi Precision Diagnostics: Hi Precision Diagnostics is a leading provider of diagnostic services and solutions that enable healthcare professionals to make more informed clinical decisions.
Address: 209 J.P. Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Poblacion District, Davao City, Davao del Sur
Phone Number: (082) 287-2584; (63) 933-826-5379; (63) 917-804-5514
Website: https://www.hi-precision.com.ph/
Email: info@hi-precision.com.ph
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hpdiagnostics
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiprecisiondiagnostics/
Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday – 6 AM to 4 PM
Where to Buy DNA Test Kit Online
The following providers allow you to order DNA test kits online from anywhere in the Philippines.
These kits come with all the components necessary for sample collection, are easy to use, and provide very accurate results.
If you intend to use the result in a court case, make sure to verify with the manufacturer or provider before purchasing the testing kit.
Below are some of the online providers:
1. GeneTrack: GeneTrack provides various types of DNA test including DNA paternity test, DNA sibling test, DNA grandparent test, DNA aunt/ uncle test, DNA twin test, and more.
Website: https://www.genetrack.com.ph/
Email: support@genetrack.com.ph
2. EasyDNA: An internationally-based DNA testing company specializing in reliable, accurate and confidential DNA testing. They have a branch in the Philippines.
Address: Unit B De Leon Building, Mt. View, Batangas St. Balibago, Angeles City 2009
Phone Number: (+63) 917 982 3932; Viber: +63 917 982 3932; WhatsApp: +63 949 724 9940
Website: https://easydna.ph/
Email: info@easydna.ph
3. Infinitech Center DNA Diagnostics Center: Is a DNA testing facility in the Philippines that has been established since 1999. Based in Quezon City, this clinic offers various DNA tests for personal or for court use.
Address: 64 Scout Gandia St., Quezon City
Phone Number: +63 283739823
Website: http://www.dnatestph.com/
Email: dnasolutionsph@gmail.com
How Does DNA Testing Work?
The process for taking a DNA test usually involves the following steps:
1. Order a DNA testing kit from your chosen provider.
2. Collect a DNA sample, typically using a cheek swab or saliva collection tube included in the kit.
3. Send the sample back to the provider in the prepaid envelope.
4. Wait for the results, which are usually delivered online within a few weeks.
DNA Test Kits vs Testing Through a Provider or Hospital
Both DNA test kits and getting tested through a clinic or hospital have their own advantages and potential drawbacks. Here’s a brief comparison of the two:
DNA Test Kits:
- Convenience: One of the biggest advantages of DNA test kits is convenience. You can order them online, take the test at home at your own pace, and send the sample back without needing to schedule an appointment or travel to a clinic.
- Privacy: Home DNA test kits offer a high level of privacy since you’re taking the test in your own space and sending it directly to the lab.
- Variety of Tests: Many home test kits offer a wide range of tests, from ancestry to health screenings, giving you more options to choose from.
- Drawbacks: The results of home test kits might not be as accurate as those from a clinic or hospital due to potential errors in self-sampling. Additionally, they may not be admissible for legal purposes, such as paternity cases, due to the lack of a verified chain of custody.
Getting Tested Through a Provider/ Hospital:
- Professional Assistance: One of the main benefits of getting tested at a clinic or hospital is that you have healthcare professionals guiding you through the process and ensuring the sample is correctly taken.
- Accuracy: Clinics and hospitals often use more advanced testing methods, which may result in more accurate results.
- Legal Admissibility: If you need the test for legal reasons, a clinic or hospital is usually the best option. They can ensure the sample’s chain of custody is preserved, making the results legally admissible.
- Drawbacks: Testing at a clinic or hospital can be more time-consuming and less convenient, as you’ll need to make an appointment and travel to the location. It may also feel less private than taking a test at home.
The best choice depends on your specific needs, what you intend to use the test for, and your personal comfort levels.
Always ensure that you’re using a reputable test kit or clinic to ensure the accuracy of your results.
Also Read: Cost of IVF in the Philippines
Cost of DNA Testing in the Philippines
The cost of DNA testing varies depending on the type of test and the specific provider. Here’s a rough estimate for some common tests:
- Paternity/Maternity Test: Prices start around PHP 14,780 for home testing kits and can go up to PHP 30,000 or more for tests requiring legal documentation.
- Ancestry Test: These tests are often more expensive due to the complexity of the analysis. Prices range from PHP 10,000 to PHP 25,000.
- Genetic Health Test: The cost of these tests varies widely based on the specific diseases or conditions tested. Prices can range from PHP 15,000 to over PHP 50,000.
Please note that these prices may vary, and additional costs may apply for sample collection, expedited results, and other services.
Below is the price list chart:
| Testing Centers | Types of DNA Tests & Corresponding Prices |
| DNA Genes PH: Paternity, Maternity, Single Profiling DNA Test (Metro Manila) | NON-LEGAL DNA TEST PHP 14,780 |
| HOME COLLECTION KIT PHP14,780 | |
| LEGAL DNA TEST available upon consultation | |
| DNA Bank PHP 14,580.00 + COURIER FEE (DEPENDING ON THE LOCATION) | |
| Hi-Precision Diagnostics (Nationwide) | Paternity Test (Non-legal) PHP 28,000 |
| Infinitech Center DNA Diagnostics Center | DNA Paternity Test from PHP 15,000.000 |
| Prenatal DNA Test (Invasive) PHP 21,800.00 | |
| Prenatal DNA Test (Non-Invasive) PHP 68,000.00 | |
| DNA Sibling Test from PHP 18,750.00 | |
| DNA Grandparent Test PHP 18,750.00 |
Below are the numerous types of DNA tests you can order online through EasyDNA:
| Online Provider: EasyDNA Rates | |
| Classification | Types of DNA Tests and Corresponding Prices |
| Paternity Tests | Home Paternity Test PHP 14,800.00 |
| Legal Paternity Test from PHP 21,800.00 | |
| Immigration DNA Test from PHP 25,795.00 | |
| Prenatal Paternity Test PHP 75,000.00 | |
| Relationship Tests | Sibling DNA Test from PHP 15,000.00 |
| Twin DNA Test PHP 14,800.00 | |
| Grandparent Test from PHP 16,900.00 | |
| Aunt & Uncle Test from PHP 15,500.00 | |
| Y Chromosome Test PHP 15,500.00 | |
| Maternity Test PHP 14,800.00 | |
| Prenatal Tests | Prenatal Paternity Test PHP 75,000.00 |
| “Prenatal Peace” – Non-invasive Prenatal Genetic Screening PHP 24,500.00 | |
| Newborn Genetic Test with Nova PHP 51,700.00 | |
| Clinical Tests | Genetic Predisposition Test PHP18,500.00 |
| Inherited Diseases Panel PHP 46,150.00 | |
| Special Inherited Male & Female Cancer Panels from PHP 36,600.00 | |
| Hair Drug Testing PHP 15,500.00 | |
| Other Tests | Infidelity Test from PHP 17,100.00 |
| Semen Detection Testing PHP 14,100.00 | |
| DNA Profiles from PHP 12,800.00 | |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to get results from a DNA test?
The timeframe for receiving results varies depending on the specific test and provider, but it generally takes a few days to several weeks.
2. How much does a DNA test cost in the Philippines?
The cost of DNA testing varies depending on the type of test and the specific provider. Prices can start from around PHP 15,000 and go up to over PHP 75,000 for more complex tests.
3 Is a DNA test accurate?
Yes, DNA tests are typically very accurate. However, the accuracy can depend on the quality of the sample provided and the specific testing methods used by the laboratory.
4. Can I use a DNA test for legal purposes?
Yes, certain DNA tests can be used for legal purposes, such as establishing paternity or maternity. However, these tests often have stricter requirements for sample collection and documentation to ensure chain of custody.
5. What kind of information can a DNA test provide?
DNA tests can provide a wealth of information, including your ethnic origins, biological relationships with other individuals, and potential risk factors for certain diseases or conditions.
6. Are DNA test results confidential?
Reputable DNA testing providers should adhere to strict confidentiality policies, meaning your results and personal information are kept private and secure.
7. What should I do if I have concerns about my DNA test results?
If you have any concerns about your DNA test results, particularly those related to health, you should discuss them with a healthcare professional who can provide guidance based on your overall health history and current conditions.
Tips for Potential Patients
- Research your options: Take the time to research different DNA testing providers and compare their services, costs, turnaround times, and online reviews before deciding on a provider.
- Consider the purpose: Make sure you understand why you’re taking the test and what kind of information you can expect from the results.
- Confirm accuracy: If the test is for legal purposes, make sure to confirm that the sample collection method will ensure its accuracy and admissibility in court.
- Get professional help: Seek medical advice if you have any concerns about your results or their implications for your health.
- Follow instructions: Read the sample collection instructions carefully and make sure to follow them so that the test results are accurate.
DNA testing in the Philippines is an investment. The wealth of information it provides can be invaluable. Whether you’re curious about your roots or making informed decisions about your health, DNA testing offers a unique glimpse into your genetic blueprint.