The primary responsibility for coordinating the media coverage of the ongoing investigation into the missing sabungeros case, particularly the search for bodies in Taal Lake, was assumed by the Department of Justice (DoJ) beginning Monday, 21 July.
In a joint advisory, the DoJ and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) outlined new protocols for journalists covering the high-profile case, which has drawn national attention since the disappearance of dozens of cockfight enthusiasts.
Under the revised guidelines, the PCG will no longer release photos or videos directly to the media. Instead, all operational materials — such as footage from the search and retrieval operations — will be forwarded to the DoJ which will be the central agency for news dissemination and media inquiries.
According to the advisory, “the DoJ will handle all requests for interviews and provide official updates to ensure consistency and clarity.”
Media outlets intending to fly drones in the vicinity of Taal Lake must secure prior clearance from the DoJ as part of the enhanced security and airspace management.
To streamline communications, the DoJ announced the creation of a dedicated media group chat to facilitate the timely and accurate release of information related to the case.