The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) announced it will begin search and retrieval operations on Friday, July 11, for the remains of missing cockfighting enthusiasts—locally known as sabungeros—believed to have been dumped in Taal Lake, weather permitting.
According to the PCG, technical divers will spearhead the operation. Commodore Geronimo Tuvilla of the Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog will oversee the effort, ensuring both operational effectiveness and the safety of personnel, especially given environmental concerns.
PCG chief Admiral Ronnie Gil L. Gavan has also mobilized support from the Coast Guard Fleet and Aviation Command, including the deployment of drones and remotely operated vehicles.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla formally requested the PCG’s assistance, and authorities believe there is still a chance to recover remains due to the freshwater environment of the lake, as explained by DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano. He contrasted this with previous searches conducted in saltwater locations.
Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 1, posing risks such as steam-driven explosions, volcanic gas, and minor earthquakes. These factors, along with weather conditions and water currents, may impact the search efforts.
So far, 34 sabungeros have gone missing between 2021 and 2022, allegedly kidnapped due to cheating in cockfighting matches. Whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan claimed the bodies were buried in Taal Lake, accusing businessman Atong Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto—both of whom have denied involvement.
Officials from the PCG, DOJ, and CIDG conducted a technical site inspection on Thursday but did not begin diving operations.