DOJ seeks Japan’s help to identify Taal Lake remains linked to missing sabungeros

More than two years since dozens of cockfighting enthusiasts disappeared without a trace, the Department of Justice is looking beyond Philippine shores for answers.

The DOJ on Thursday confirmed it has formally sought the assistance of the Japanese government to conduct further DNA testing on bone fragments recently recovered from Taal Lake. Authorities believe the remains may be linked to the unsolved case of missing sabungeros.

Local forensic teams were unable to extract a viable DNA profile from the specimens. “The DOJ understands the challenges of our DNA-testing capacities. This is exactly why we have asked the Japanese government to help us with testing the remains found,” said Justice Assistant Secretary Atty. Mico Clavano.

The agency underscored the Marcos administration’s commitment to seek justice in the high-profile disappearances that have haunted families since late 2021.

“With the President’s statements in the SONA, the government is expected to see beyond these challenges and find a way to get to the truth and deliver justice,” the DOJ added.

Last month, skeletal fragments believed to be human remains were retrieved from the lake, following reports that some of the missing sabungeros may have been dumped there. However, tests conducted in the country yielded inconclusive results.

At least 34 individuals involved in online and cockpit gambling operations remain missing. Multiple law enforcers and civilians have been implicated, but no convictions have been made.

The DOJ stressed that it is determined to exhaust all available resources, including international cooperation, to resolve the case and bring closure to the victims’ families.

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