DOJ Suspends Search for Missing Cockfight Enthusiasts in Taal Lake

On July 19, 2025, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla announced the temporary suspension of search and retrieval operations in Taal Lake for missing cockfight enthusiasts, known as "sabungeros." The decision arose due to adverse weather conditions caused by Tropical Storm Crising, which has significantly reduced underwater visibility in the lake, making search efforts unfeasible. Remulla stated, "The weather does not permit us to carry a good search," during a briefing at the Department of Justice (DOJ).

The search operations, which began in June 2022, are part of an ongoing investigation into the disappearances of 34 sabungeros reported missing from various regions since 2021. The probe gained momentum following the testimony of Julie "Dondon" Patidongan, a security guard at a cockfighting arena. He claimed that the missing individuals were murdered due to allegations of cheating in cockfights and subsequently disposed of in Taal Lake. Remulla noted that ongoing searches have yielded sacks containing what are believed to be human remains, finding confirmation of Patidongan's claims.

As of the latest reports, search teams have recovered four sacks from the lake, two of which appeared to contain human bones, while the others contained sand. According to Police Lt. Col. Edmar dela Torre, chief of the Philippine National Police’s Forensic Group’s DNA Laboratory Division, 91 pieces of bones have been retrieved from Taal Lake, with six confirmed to be human. The laboratory is currently working on extracting usable DNA from these remains to match with genetic samples from the families of the missing sabungeros.

In addition to underwater searches, authorities exhumed three bodies from a public cemetery in Laurel, Batangas, believed to be connected to the disappearances. However, Remulla withheld further details pending a police report. The search operations face additional challenges, including the threat of volcanic eruptions from Taal Volcano, which is situated near the lake. The volcano recently experienced a phreatic eruption on May 29, followed by a phreatomagmatic eruption on July 17.

Remulla emphasized the need for safety, stating, "If it’s not healthy, if this will be detrimental to people’s health, then we stop for now." He assured that the DOJ is in continuous consultation with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) regarding the safety of ongoing operations. As the search continues to be hampered by inclement weather and geological hazards, the families of the missing sabungeros remain hopeful for answers in their loved ones' disappearances. This case highlights the complexities surrounding the culture of cockfighting in the Philippines and raises significant concerns regarding public safety and regulatory oversight in the industry.