By Brian Campued
The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that authorities retrieved a sack containing burned remains believed to be human bones during the initial technical site assessment for the search and retrieval operation of the 34 missing “sabungeros” near Taal Lake on Thursday.
In a statement, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said that a team from the Philippine National Police–Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG), in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), discovered the alleged human remains from the lakebed in Laurel, Batangas.
“This discovery could represent a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation,” Remulla said. “While we proceed with caution and diligence, it offers renewed hope that we are closer to uncovering the truth and securing justice for the families of the missing.”
The retrieved remains will undergo forensic examination to confirm if it is indeed human bones, the DOJ said. After which a DNA testing will be conducted to determine if there is a match with any of the families of the missing cockfighters.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) later clarified that the PNP Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) will examine the remains.
“The sack and its contents were turned over by the PNP, DOJ, and PCG to the PRO-4A SOCO for forensic examination,” NBI Director Jaime Santiago said.
The PCG is expected to commence technical dive operations this Friday if the “weather permits”.
Malacañang previously called for a deeper investigation into the missing sabungeros to ensure that justice is served, especially for the families of the victims.
Whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan claimed that the remains of the said individuals were dumped in Taal Lake. (with reports from Louisa Erispe, Isaiah Mirafuentes, and Ryan Lesigues | PTV News)
-jpv
