Taal Lake Search Intensifies for Missing Sabungeros

The search for 34 cockfighting enthusiasts, missing since 2021, has intensified in Taal Lake. Despite challenging underwater conditions, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has recovered additional evidence, potentially bringing closure to the long-unsolved case.

New Evidence Recovered

During a third dive on Saturday, the PCG recovered two more sacks from Taal Lake believed to be connected to the missing *sabungeros*. The sacks, found southeast of the **Alitagtag-Laurel** bridge, contained stones and what appeared to be cement. These items have been turned over to SOCO for forensic analysis, according to reports.

Commodore Geronimo Tuvilla, commander of the PCG District Southern Tagalog, stated that these sacks differed from the three found earlier, noting “Technically, [they have the] same texture with the first three sacks, but the description is different. This is the only set so far with cement.”

Challenging Search Conditions

The search began at 8 a.m., but underwater visibility was near zero, forcing divers to rely on touch. Tuvilla explained that divers used buoys and reference lines to navigate and mark suspicious objects for investigators from the CIDG and BIA, who must be present during retrievals.

The weight of the recovered sacks posed an additional challenge. Divers also found discarded feed sacks and footwear, which are undergoing evaluation. As of Saturday afternoon, a total of five sacks have been recovered. The PCG is coordinating closely with investigative units to explore other flagged areas.

Technological Assistance on the Way

To mitigate the dangerous conditions, the PCG will deploy a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) from BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701). PCG spokesman **Capt. Noemie Cayabyab** said the ROV, equipped with floodlights and a manipulator arm, will scan the lake bed and aid in recovery operations.

Complementing the ROV, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are conducting aerial reconnaissance, marking the PCG’s most comprehensive technological response in this years-long search, according to **Cayabyab**. As of 2023, the PCG had 24 operational UAVs (Official Gazette).

Allegations and Investigation

The case gained renewed attention after whistleblower **Julie “Dondon” Patidongan**, alias “Totoy,” implicated **Atong Ang** and **Gretchen Barretto** in the *sabungeros’* abduction and killing. Both **Ang** and **Barretto** deny the accusations.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) clarified that the investigation is evidence-based. Justice Undersecretary **Raul Vasquez** emphasized “This is not personality-oriented…We are building a case based on strong evidence and scientific investigation.”

**Vasquez** added that authorities will follow where the evidence leads, aiming to determine accountability for the disappearances. Forensic teams have begun collecting DNA samples from families of the missing. DOJ spokesman **Mico Clavano** said initial testing could take 24 to 48 hours.

Local Impact

**Mayor Lyndon Bruce** of Laurel town said the investigation has negatively impacted local livelihoods and tourism. Fish trading has been affected due to concerns about the alleged dumping of human remains in fish pens.

**Bruce** noted deliveries to fish ports have decreased and tourists are staying away. Despite these challenges, the municipal government is supporting national operations and working to prevent future incidents.