Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Monday urged the public to remain patient as government agencies continue their investigation into the disappearance of 34 cockfighting enthusiasts, stating the search of Taal Lake and its surroundings is a “long and broad process” with no immediate answers.
“You’re talking about a 240-square-kilometer lake that is very deep. So we need perseverance,” Remulla said in an interview.
The DOJ chief stressed that while the public demands daily updates, authorities must stick to a “step-by-step” approach grounded in scientific forensics.
The Department of Justice is overseeing the identification of recovered remains using DNA methodologies and is coordinating closely with other agencies such as the Philippine Coast Guard and the military.
“We are moving to use the best scientific means to ascertain the identity of the remains we will uncover,” Remulla said.
He confirmed that some materials retrieved from the lake are still undergoing forensic examination, dismissing public speculation. “Let’s not try to rock the boat,” he warned, discouraging exclusive interviews with other officials. “We should speak with one voice—it has to be mostly the DOJ.”
Remulla also downplayed online criticism and rumors, including claims that intact sacks retrieved from the lake may be linked to foul play. “If I were to answer all of those criticisms, we might as well stop doing what we do,” he said.
He said several legal angles are being explored as investigators assess possible charges. “It can be murder, it can be kidnapping, it can be a violation of international humanitarian law, or R.A. 9851 [the Philippine law penalizing crimes against humanity],” he said. “We are not rushing. There’s a logical sequence that must be followed. This cannot be handled haphazardly.”
Remulla acknowledged that statements made by detainee Jeffrey Patidongan, alias “Julie,” have helped guide the ongoing underwater search. “We’re going about the narration of Patidongan in directing the Coast Guard and the Navy,” he said, confirming that areas he identified, including a fishpond, are under scrutiny.
Asked whether his statements are being corroborated by evidence, Remulla replied, “They are becoming stronger,” but added that murky lake conditions and poor visibility complicate the search.
He expects to meet again with Patidongan within the week to clarify key details. “I have many questions of my own to ask him,” he said, promising to provide further updates, possibly by Thursday.
Emphasizing that even if some families of the missing men have withdrawn from the case, the state remains obligated to pursue justice. “In criminal law, there are private offended parties, but this is also about the interest of the nation. We cannot allow a system where one person acts like a god, deciding who lives and who dies.”
Remulla revealed that new witnesses are coming forward but investigators have not yet returned to families who showed waning interest. “It does not stop us legally from pursuing the interest of the country,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude for Japan’s offer to help with the search. “We expect to meet with their embassy in the coming days to discuss what we need. We are very grateful,” he said, adding that the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and other agencies are contributing under a “whole-of-government” approach.
Asked if the owner of the fishpond identified in the investigation has been traced, Remulla said there is no update yet, but that more information will be shared as it becomes available. “This is not something you get answers to every hour. It’s a process,” he said.
Remulla also confirmed coordination with the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), saying he had already spoken with Acting Vice Chairperson Atty. Alberto Kalinisan. “There is no turf war here. We are on the same page,” he said.