Overview
The Philippine Coast Guard has discovered multiple sacks containing bones during a search in Tal Lake, believed to be linked to missing "saboneros." The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine if the remains belong to the missing individuals.
Discovery and Search Operations
- Philippine Coast Guard conducted technical dives in Tal Lake, Laurel, Batangas, following tips from informants.
- 36 divers searched two areas reportedly used for dumping bodies of missing "saboneros."
- Whistleblower Julie Dondon Patidongan (alias Stoy) claims bodies were thrown in the lake; his information led to the search.
- On the assessment day, a sack with bones suspected to be human was found; more sacks were discovered on the following day.
- Four sacks of bones are now stored at the NBI command center for further examination.
Investigation Procedures
- Sacks will only be opened in the presence of a prosecutor, NBI personnel, and investigators to ensure evidence handling.
- Initial verification process will determine if bones are human; confirmation expected within 24–48 hours.
- DNA samples from relatives of missing "saboneros" have been collected for identification if remains are confirmed human.
- If DNA does not match the missing individuals, authorities may be facing a separate case.
Families and Public Reaction
- Families of missing "saboneros" visited the site to observe retrieval operations and hope for closure.
- Relatives of missing agent Ricardo Lasco expressed a desire for a proper burial if his remains are found.
- Public interest remains high, with coverage by local journalists and exclusive interviews.
Whistleblower Testimony and Allegations
- Patidongan, under police protection, asserts the discovered sacks support his account.
- He challenges implicated individuals, including businessman Atong Ang and PCSO Chairman Felix Reyes, to take lie detector tests.
- Both Ang and Reyes have denied the allegations and questioned Patidongan's credibility.
Government and Official Statements
- Malacañang Palace promises transparency, assuring there will be no cover-up in the investigation.
Action Items
- Within 24–48 hours – NBI/DOJ: Confirm if the recovered bones are human.
- TBD – Forensics Team: Match DNA samples with relatives of missing "saboneros."
- TBD – Authorities: Proceed with further investigation if bones do not match missing individuals.