Manila: Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed that two of the four sacks recovered by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) from Taal Lake contained human remains.

According to Philippines News Agency, Remulla informed reporters that the contents of the recovered sacks were clearly human remains and included ribs. The other sacks, which contained sand, were believed to have been used as weights.

The sacks were located with the assistance of boatmen identified by whistleblower Julie Patidongan, alias Totoy. Remulla mentioned that the boatmen pointed out the location as indicated by Patidongan. The whistleblower had previously claimed that at least 100 victims were dumped in the lake.

Remulla stated that the discovery of the two sacks of human remains is a positive indication of Patidongan's credibility. Additionally, police investigators have recovered three unclaimed cadavers from the town's public cemetery. These are believed to belong to individuals recovered from the lake in 2020, allegedly involved in e-sabong and abducted in Lipa, Batangas. One of these individuals was identified by a basketball jersey, and one was reportedly pregnant.

Remulla also noted that authorities would monitor seismic events in the volcano before deciding to proceed with further diving activities.