Philippine Lake Search for Missing Cockfighters Starts
Search for Missing Cockfighters Turns to Lake Taal
On Thursday, a team of investigators arrived at a lake south of Manila to locate dozens of cockfighters who are alleged to have been murdered by rogue police officers, the Department of Justice said.
Police Officers Under Investigation
- Fifteen officers are being investigated over a series of mysterious disappearances in 2022 within the Philippines’s massive cockfighting industry.
- The case resurfaced last month when a witness claimed to know where bodies had been submerged in Lake Taal.
Witnesses Identify Missing Bodies in Lake Taal
The justice secretary, Crispin Remulla, said he has multiple witnesses who can pinpoint where the missing persons were buried in the lake, which covers more than 230 square kilometres (89 square miles). The department’s statement added that the Thursday mission aims to map the search area, assess water conditions, and measure the depth of the covered zone.
Coast Guard Joins Preliminary Assessment
The Philippine Coast Guard will assist in the preliminary evaluation, the department said. National Police Chief Nicolas Torre emphasized the need to act swiftly, noting the upcoming typhoon season and the challenges of locating buried bodies.
Japan Offers Technical Assistance
Remulla requested technical assistance from Japan, including help to map the lake bed, parts of which are as deep as 172 metres (564 feet). The Japanese embassy in Manila confirmed receipt of the request but did not provide further details.
Philippines Had Equipment to Begin Search
Torre believes the Philippines already has the necessary equipment to begin the search, citing the country’s robust shipping industry that could facilitate the operation.
Sport of Cockfighting Endures Despite Pandemic
Filipinos from all walks of life wager millions of dollars on rooster fights that take place weekly. The roosters are fitted with razor‑sharp metal spurs attached to their legs, tying them to a life‑or‑death battle.
The sport, banned in many other countries, survived the coronavirus pandemic by moving online, attracting more gamblers who place bets using mobile phones. Former president Rodrigo Duterte outlawed the livestreaming of cockfights shortly before leaving office in 2022, but the activity continues due to lax enforcement.
