Six Bones May Be Human Remains
Authorities have recovered six bones from Taal Lake that may be human, according to the Philippine National Police Forensic Group (PNP-FG). This discovery is part of the ongoing search for the missing “sabungeros” last seen between 2021 and 2022.
So far, 91 bones have been retrieved from five sacks found in the lake. PNP-FG DNA Laboratory Division officer-in-charge Lt. Col. Edmar Dela Torre shared in a recent briefing that six of these bones show characteristics consistent with human origin. “By morphology, it’s of human origin,” he said.
Identifying Human Bone Structures
Deputy Director for Administration Col. Francisco Supe Jr. explained that the bones exhibit features such as the pubic bone, ischium, ilium, and notable holes called foramina. “Animals have those too, but the shape is peculiar in humans,” he noted. “From observation alone, you can tell these bones are likely human.”
The PNP-FG has collected 18 DNA samples from relatives of the missing “sabungeros” through swabbing. These samples will help confirm if the bones belong to the missing cockfighting enthusiasts.
Ongoing DNA Testing and Challenges
The search intensified after whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, also known as Totoy, revealed last June that the missing “sabungeros” may have been killed, with their bodies tied to sandbags and dumped into Taal Lake.
Authorities recovered one sack on Thursday, two on Friday, and another two on Saturday. These were promptly handed over to crime scene investigators for forensic analysis.
Dela Torre explained that the bones were dried and sorted before DNA profiling. The forensic team is matching these profiles against those from the victims’ parents and children. “We need to make it clear to the people that it’s actually very challenging considering that they were submerged in water,” he added.
Despite the difficulties, the forensic group remains committed to uncovering the truth behind the disappearance of the “sabungeros.”
For more news and updates on bones recovered from Taal Lake, visit Filipinokami.com.
