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Coast Guard Searches Taal Lake for Missing Cockfighters
The Philippine Coast Guard has launched a search operation in Taal Lake, a volcanic crater lake south of Manila, for dozens of missing cockfighters believed murdered between 2021-2022. Authorities suspect rogue police officers dumped the bodies in the 89-square-kilometer lake after executing them.
Arrests and Witness Testimony
Fifteen police officers were recently arrested for suspected involvement in the disappearances. The case gained renewed attention after a key witness appeared on national television, claiming the cockfighters were killed on orders from a major gambling boss who accused them of match-fixing. The alleged mastermind denies involvement.
Justice Minister Crispin Remulla confirmed additional witnesses have come forward who can identify the exact dumping locations in the lake, which reaches depths of 172 meters in some areas.
Police Corruption Crisis
Corrupt police involvement in criminal activities remains a systemic problem in the Philippines. The issue worsened during former President Rodrigo Duterte's administration when officers participated in extrajudicial killings. Current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has taken action against 6,200 officers during his three-year tenure, though corruption persists.
Search Challenges
The Coast Guard faces significant challenges mapping the search area before the approaching typhoon season. National Police Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil acknowledged the difficulty: "We're working as fast as we can given the depth and weather constraints." Sonar equipment is being deployed to locate remains.
Cockfighting Industry Context
Cockfighting is a $500-million annual industry in the Philippines where roosters fitted with razor blades fight to the death. While culturally significant, animal rights groups have long campaigned for its prohibition due to extreme cruelty. The case highlights the violent underworld surrounding this controversial blood sport.
