The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) strongly denied unfounded allegations that the sacks of bones recovered by its divers from Taal Lake were planted in connection with the case of the long-lost cockfighting players or the ‘missing sabungeros.’
In a statement, PCG Commodore Geronimo Tuvilla explained that the ongoing search and retrieval operations require massive efforts, involving underwater personnel and forensic experts who carefully examine everything. Therefore, it should not be taken lightly.
“What we are finding here entails DNA, which is why the forensic team and SOCO [Scene of the Crime Operatives] are here. If we find bones there and subjected to a DNA test of the missing. Then we can examine if these were from the persons we are finding or these were only planted,” he said.
“If our commitment to the search were that shallow, we wouldn’t put them in such danger. We pour our heart and mind into this. Every time we conduct a dive, half of the diver’s body is exposed to danger. This is no joke, and what we’re doing should not be taken lightly or reduced to mere speculation,” Tuvilla added.
According to PCG Spokesperson Capt. Noemi Cayabyab, the ongoing search and retrieval operation is part of a legitimate and formal investigation, based on information disclosed by whistleblower Julie “Totoy” Patidongan.
Currently, five sacks containing suspected bones, burnt parts of bones, and stones were recovered by PCG divers at the bottom of the lake. The sacks were placed...
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) strongly denied unfounded allegations that the sacks of bones recovered by its divers from Taal Lake were planted in connection with the case of the long-lost cock...