The Philippine Navy has expressed readiness to assist in the ongoing search for the 34 missing cockfighting enthusiasts—known locally as sabungeros—believed to be buried in Taal Lake.
At a Tuesday briefing, Navy spokesperson Captain John Percie Alcos said they are awaiting an official request from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to deploy the Naval Special Operations Command, an elite unit equipped for such technical missions.
“Deployment depends on the area inspection,” Alcos explained. “Usually, three teams are assigned to technical diving operations, each composed of four personnel.”
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla earlier confirmed that authorities plan to begin search operations this week, identifying a fishpond leased by a suspect as their “ground zero.”
The Philippine government has also sought technical help from Japan and expects a response within the week. Meanwhile, the Department of Science and Technology has offered support, and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has committed forensic expertise.
The case dates back to 2021–2022, when dozens of sabungeros disappeared under suspicious circumstances linked to match-fixing. A whistleblower—who is also a suspect—claimed the victims were buried in the lake, implicating businessman Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto, both of whom have denied any involvement.