No DNA Profiles Extracted From Taal Lake Bones
Authorities confirmed that no DNA profiles were successfully extracted from the bones recovered in Taal Lake. The Philippine National Police (PNP) shared this update following the retrieval of at least 91 bone fragments from five sacks pulled from the lake earlier this July.
“Wala na tayong na-extract accordingly na DNA profile (from the bones). Parang contaminated na,” said PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo during a briefing at Camp Crame. She explained that the prolonged submersion of the bones caused contamination, making DNA extraction impossible.
“Ang challenge doon dahil matagal na ngang naka-submerge,” she added, highlighting the difficulty due to the bones being underwater for an extended period.
Details on the Bone Recovery
Out of the 91 bone pieces, 45 were found in the first sack recovered on July 10, while the remaining 46 were retrieved from sacks discovered on July 12. The PNP Forensic Group earlier noted that six of these fragments could possibly be human.
Exhumed Bodies and DNA Profiles
In addition to the bones from the lake, authorities exhumed three bodies from a cemetery near Taal Lake. These yielded three DNA profiles—two males and one female. However, none matched the 23 DNA references provided by families of the missing sabungeros who came forward.
“However, negative doon ang matching doon sa 23 DNA reference doon sa mga who came forward (from the families of the sabungeros) and provided DNA profile,” Fajardo explained.
Background on the Case
The controversy began when whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan (Alias Totoy) claimed in a June interview that sabungeros were killed, tied to sandbags, and dumped in Taal Lake. Authorities have been investigating these allegations since.
Despite thorough efforts, the challenge of DNA contamination and lack of matches have complicated identification. Local sources continue to monitor developments closely.
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