How much does DNA testing cost and how does it work?

Viewers rejoiced with overseas Filipino worker Ryan Mendoza when, in another heartwarming episode of "Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho", he was reunited with his biological mother after decades of separation.

Two women initially claimed to be his real mother and it was thanks to the science of DNA testing that the truth was revealed and he met his nanay, Maritess "Mayet" Tolentino.

Elsewhere in the country, there are people like Ryan looking to employ the aid of a DNA test to find their family. How much does this procedure cost and what does it entail?

In a 24 Oras report, Tina Panganiban-Perez spoke with Jaime Lazatin, chief executive officer of DNA Solutions Philippines to demystify the process.

DNA Solutions Philippines offers personal DNA testing for P15,000 and this includes testing to prove familial relationships such as paternity as early as nine weeks into the pregnancy.

The regular familial DNA testing starts with a simple swab.

"The kit has 3 sets of swabs. So that's for the father, mother and child. Ang laman ng swab, it's like an ordinary cotton bud na isa lang ang dulo. So you just brush it inside the cheeks," Lazatin explained.

These samples are then properly labeled with relevant information and are sent to a laboratory outside the country. The results take weeks to arrive.

The DNA diagnostics center also offers "discreet testing", especially if it involves proving relationships between an adult and an older child (10 years old and above).

In this case, nail clippings, used cotton buds, hair with roots, toothbrush, and blood stains can be used for testing.

For the non-invasive pre-natal test or the DNA test conducted before the child is born. "Kukuha kami ng blood from the mother and then mouth swabs from the father," Lazatin said.

DNA testing for court purposes is more expensive — P27,500 — as it involves more paperwork and the process is more meticulous. — Aya Tantiangco / LA, GMA News