The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recovered a sack containing bones amid efforts to locate the missing sabungeros or cockfighting enthusiasts in Taal Lake.

According to Calabarzon Police Chief Police Brigadier General Jack Wanky the bones were found near the location where whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan claimed the missing sabungeros were transported before being dumped at the side of Taal Lake in Laurel, Batangas.

The DOJ said either the CIDG or the National Bureau of Investigation, through forensic examination, would certify whether the remains belong to humans.

DNA testing will also be conducted to determine if there is a match with any of the families of the missing sabungeros, the DOJ said.

 ”This discovery could represent a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation. While we proceed with caution and diligence, it offers renewed hope that we are closer to uncovering the truth and securing justice for the families of the missing,” it said. 

If the weather permits, the PCG will start searching the lake for the remains on Friday.

PCG chief Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan directed the Coast Guard Fleet and Coast Guard Aviation Command to utilize remotely operated vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles to support the operation.

Patidongan claimed that the victims were already buried in Taal Lake.

He named businessman Atong Ang as a mastermind in the case and also linked actress Gretchen Barretto to the disappearances. Both have denied the allegations. 

A total of 34 cockfighting enthusiasts have been reported missing from 2021 to 2022. According to the police, the missing individuals were kidnapped allegedly due to match fixing or cheating in the cockfighting games.