Authorities Renew Search for Missing Sabungeros in Taal Lake
Four years after the disappearance of several sabungeros, or cockfight enthusiasts, authorities have launched a renewed and intensified search and retrieval operation in Taal Lake. This fresh push marks a crucial turning point in the stalled investigation.
The Department of Justice (DOJ), together with the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine National Police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), conducted a technical site assessment on Thursday. Their goal was to pinpoint possible locations where the missing sabungeros might be found.
DOJ spokesperson Assistant Secretary Jose Dominic Clavano IV shared that the intensified search and retrieval operation came about due to new information from multiple informants, including the testimony of Julie “Dondon” Patidongan.
“This is a result of information we’ve gathered not only from ‘alias Totoy’ but also from other credible informants who have approached us. This is a crucial step in the investigation,” Clavano told reporters.
Focused Assessment on Fish Farm Site
Currently, the investigative team is zeroing in on a specific site — a fish farm in Taal Lake with an estimated depth of 30 meters. The team is carefully evaluating water conditions such as clarity and turbidity to strategize their upcoming operations effectively.
Although some doubt the chances of finding anything after four years, Clavano explained that the freshwater environment of Taal Lake offers a better possibility of recovering remains compared to past searches conducted elsewhere.
He emphasized the significance of this breakthrough. “Now that a witness has come forward and the government is fully committed to this, more informants have approached us. So, this is a step in the right direction. We will not stop here. This is not our only lead, but it is one of the biggest,” Clavano said.
Investigation Gains Momentum with New Leads
The renewed search effort follows years of limited progress, but the influx of credible tips has energized the authorities. With the DOJ, Coast Guard, and PNP-CIDG working closely together, the operation aims to finally bring answers to the families of the missing sabungeros.
The continued commitment of government agencies and the cooperation of informants highlight the importance of uncovering the truth in this long-standing case.
For more news and updates on missing sabungeros, visit Filipinokami.com.