Department of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed that two of four sacks recovered by the Philippine Coast Guard from Taal Lake contained human remains, including ribs.
The other sacks reportedly held sand used as weights, and the location of the sacks was pointed out by local boatmen based on information from whistleblower Julie Patidongan, who claimed that at least 100 victims were dumped in the lake.
Remulla described the discovery as a positive sign that the whistleblower’s claims have credibility.
Police investigators also recovered three unclaimed cadavers buried in a local cemetery, believed to be linked to victims abducted in 2020 related to e-sabong activities.
Authorities are monitoring seismic activity at Taal Volcano before deciding to continue diving operations in the lake.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 18, 2025
