Photo credit: PCG

The Philippine National Police Forensic Group confirmed on Tuesday that six of the 91 bone samples recovered during the ongoing search in Taal Lake are most likely human remains. The confirmation was based on the morphology—or the physical characteristics—of the bone fragments, which experts say strongly suggest human origin.

According to Police Lieutenant Colonel Edmar Dela Torre, Officer-in-Charge of the DNA Laboratory Division, it typically takes five to seven days to process and generate initial findings from the samples. Following this, another five to seven days are needed to conduct DNA cross-matching, comparing the bone samples with DNA provided by relatives of the missing individuals.

So far, 18 family members of the missing sabungeros have submitted DNA reference samples to assist in the investigation. The goal is to establish conclusive identification, if possible, and provide some clarity to families who have been waiting for answers since the controversial disappearances linked to illegal sabong activities.

The PNP’s work continues alongside other agencies in the search and recovery efforts in Taal Lake, as the nation closely watches for developments in one of the most troubling cases in recent memory.