Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Monday urged patience as government agencies continue investigating the disappearance of 34 cockfight enthusiasts, saying the search of Taal Lake and nearby areas 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 Department of Justice (DoJ) chief emphasized that while the public seeks daily updates, authorities must follow a “step-by-step” approach rooted in scientific forensics.
The DoJ is overseeing the identification of any recovered remains using DNA methodologies and is coordinating closely with other agencies such as the Philippine Coast Guard and the military.
Remulla said, “We are moving to use the best scientific means to ascertain the identity of the remains we will uncover.”
He confirmed that some materials retrieved from the lake were still undergoing forensic examination, dismissing speculations circulating among the public.
“Let’s not rock the boat,” he said, discouraging exclusive interviews of other officials. “We should speak with one voice — it has to be mostly the DoJ.”
Remulla downplayed online criticism and speculation, including claims the intact sacks recovered 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.
Remulla said investigators are exploring several legal angles as they assess potential charges.
“It can be murder, it can be kidnapping, it can be a violation of international humanitarian law, or RA 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.”
He acknowledged that statements made by detainee Jeffrey Patidongan, alias “Julie” and “Totoy,” 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 if his statements are backed by evidence, Remulla replied, “They are becoming stronger,” but added that the murky lake conditions and poor visibility complicate the search.
Remulla said 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 had 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,” he said.