Philippines Searches Lake Taal for Bodies of Missing Cockfighters Allegedly Killed by Rogue Police Officers

MANILA, July 11 — Authorities in the Philippines have begun searching Lake Taal, south of Manila, for the bodies of dozens of cockfighters allegedly murdered by rogue police officers.

Fifteen officers are currently under investigation in connection with a series of mysterious disappearances in 2022 tied to the country’s multibillion-peso cockfighting industry.

Public interest in the case reignited last month after a televised interview with a witness who claimed to know the location of the bodies submerged in Lake Taal, roughly two hours from the capital.

The witness, Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, told broadcaster GMA that as many as 100 individuals may have been killed over accusations of match-fixing, allegedly by police officers working on the side for an online cockfighting syndicate.

Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla said multiple witnesses can help pinpoint where the bodies were dumped in the 230-square-kilometre lake. On Thursday, the Philippine Coast Guard and national police launched a preliminary operation to prepare for deeper dives, possibly reaching depths of 30 metres.

“This is a positive step, but it’s just the beginning. We have more leads to pursue,” Justice Department spokesman Dominic Clavano told reporters.

Cockfighting, known locally as “sabong,” is hugely popular in the Philippines, with people from all backgrounds betting millions weekly on deadly matches involving roosters armed with metal spurs.

Charlene Lasco, whose brother Ricardo worked as an agent for online cockfights and went missing, said grieving families want closure. “We’re grateful the government is trying its best to locate the remains and resolve this case,” she said. “We are not the only ones affected,” she added, referencing claims of up to 100 victims.

Urgency Before Typhoon Season

Philippine National Police Chief Nicolas Torre stressed the need to act quickly in light of the incoming typhoon season. “We’re moving fast to try to recover the bodies, though we know the challenges are immense,” he said.

Justice Secretary Remulla has also requested technical assistance from Japan to help map the lake floor, which in some areas plunges to depths of 172 metres. Japan’s embassy confirmed receiving the request but did not disclose further details.

Despite this, Torre expressed confidence that local resources would suffice to begin the operation. “Our maritime industry is strong, and we have the tools needed to start the search,” he said.

While cockfighting is banned in many countries, it remains legal in the Philippines. During the pandemic, it shifted online and saw a surge in popularity, with gamblers placing bets via smartphones. Though former president Rodrigo Duterte banned online streaming of matches in 2022, enforcement has been weak, allowing the practice to persist. — AFP