Photo credit: DOJ

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has expressed openness to investigating the recent claims made by a whistleblower known as “Totoy,” who alleged that the remains of missing cockfighting enthusiasts were dumped in Taal Lake.

According to DOJ officials, the department is currently evaluating the credibility of the testimony and is considering placing “Totoy” under the Witness Protection Program to ensure his safety. His statement, if verified, could be a significant development in a case that has remained unresolved for over four years.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief PGen. Nicolas Torre III has committed to leading the search for the remains of the 34 missing individuals. These victims have been unaccounted for since 2021, and the new testimony could potentially lead authorities closer to uncovering the truth behind their mysterious disappearance.

Police Regional Office III Director and PNP Spokesperson PBGen. Jean Fajardo emphasized that the PNP considers “Totoy’s” revelations a major breakthrough. She stated that these statements will serve as the basis for reopening and actively pursuing the investigation.

Despite this progress, the task remains daunting. The search for the victims’ bodies in the vast and deep waters of Taal Lake presents a serious logistical and investigative challenge. However, the PNP remains determined to pursue every possible lead in the hopes of delivering long-overdue justice to the victims and their families.

For now, the focus is on verifying the whistleblower’s claims and taking the necessary legal steps to protect his safety while pushing forward in one of the country’s most disturbing unsolved cases.