BATANGAS, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Monday dismissed rumors that sacks allegedly containing human remains found in Taal Lake were planted to support a whistleblower’s claims involving the deaths of over 100 cockfighting enthusiasts.
“It’s disheartening to hear such allegations,” said PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie Guirao-Cayabyab in an interview with DZMM. “We risk the lives of our technical divers daily. We are simply here to support the lead agency and help uncover the truth.”
Since Thursday, authorities have retrieved at least five sacks weighed down by rocks from the lake, reportedly containing a mix of human and animal bones. The retrieval is part of the ongoing investigation into claims by whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan that more than 100 sabungeros were killed and dumped in the lake for alleged involvement in match-fixing.
PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III confirmed the discovery of both human and animal remains. “We’re currently examining all recovered bones to determine their origin,” he said, noting that the area is near farms, which may explain the animal bones.
So far, 12 families of the 34 reported missing cockfighters have submitted DNA samples to assist in identification. The retrieved bones have been sent to the PNP Forensic Group for cross-matching.
The PCG has deployed 49 divers in two teams for the operation, which enters its fourth day. Divers conduct retrievals in the early morning to take advantage of better light and calmer weather.
Authorities urge families of undocumented victims to come forward and provide DNA samples. The investigation continues amid growing public interest in the high-profile case, which implicates rogue police officers allegedly working for an illegal online cockfighting operator.
