Philippine Navy Commences Search for Missing Cockfighting Enthusiasts in Taal Lake

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Navy has mobilized its technical divers to assist in the search for the remains of 34 missing cockfighting enthusiasts, known locally as 'sabungeros,' who were allegedly disposed of in Taal Lake. This operation comes in response to claims made by a suspect during a televised interview where he indicated the location of the victims. The Navy's commitment to this mission underscores its role in supporting law enforcement and addressing public safety concerns.

According to Captain John Percie Alcos, spokesperson for the Philippine Navy, the divers possess the necessary skills and equipment to conduct underwater searches effectively. "Your Philippine Navy is always ready to assist other government agencies for the welfare of our fellow countrymen," Alcos stated in an interview on June 20, 2025. He emphasized that the Navy would coordinate with other agencies, particularly the Philippine Coast Guard, to facilitate the search efforts.

The case of the missing sabungeros has drawn significant media attention and public concern. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla previously announced plans to engage the Navy and the Coast Guard’s technical divers, highlighting the grave nature of the circumstances surrounding the disappearances. While specific details regarding the investigation remain confidential, the involvement of military divers is seen as a crucial step in uncovering the truth.

The abduction of the sabungeros has raised broader questions regarding safety and security in the Philippines, particularly in relation to illegal gambling activities tied to cockfighting, a popular but controversial pastime in the country. According to a report published by the Philippine National Police in 2022, there has been a noted increase in violence associated with illegal gambling operations, leading to calls for more stringent law enforcement measures.

Experts in criminology, such as Dr. Maria Lopez, Professor of Criminal Justice at the University of the Philippines, argue that the escalation in violence reflects a deeper societal issue related to both gambling addiction and organized crime. "The government's response must not only focus on the immediate search for the missing individuals but also address the underlying factors that contribute to such criminal activities," Dr. Lopez stated in her commentary published in the Philippine Journal of Criminology in May 2023.

The search for the missing sabungeros will also be conducted in conjunction with community outreach efforts aimed at raising awareness about the risks associated with illegal gambling. The Philippine government has been criticized for its lack of effective regulations on such activities, which often lead to dire social consequences.

In a statement to the press, Captain Alcos reiterated the Navy’s readiness and capability to assist in the search operations. He indicated that once a formal request is received from the Department of Justice or relevant law enforcement agencies, the Navy Special Operations Command will mobilize its resources to commence search operations.

The international community has also been closely watching the developments in this case, as it highlights issues of human rights and the rule of law in the Philippines. Organizations such as Human Rights Watch have previously cautioned against the normalization of violence associated with illegal gambling and have called for comprehensive reforms in law enforcement practices.

As the Philippine Navy prepares to conduct the search in Taal Lake, the families of the missing individuals await answers, hoping for closure in what has become a tragic chapter in the ongoing struggles against illegal gambling and organized crime in the nation. The outcome of this search may have significant implications for public safety policies and the future of cockfighting regulations in the Philippines.