Quezon city: The Philippine Navy (PN) has expressed its readiness to assist in the ongoing search for the missing "sabungeros" (cockfight aficionados) whose remains are believed to have been disposed of in Taal Lake. This announcement was made by an official on Tuesday, underscoring the Navy's preparedness to support the retrieval efforts.

According to Philippines News Agency, PN spokesperson Capt. John Percie Alcos stated during a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo that the Navy has specially trained divers who can be deployed to aid in the effort. Alcos mentioned that they are currently awaiting an official request for assistance from the Department of Justice.

Capt. Alcos emphasized that the divers would be sourced from the Naval Special Operations Command, recognized as the elite unit of the Philippine Navy. He assured that these divers are capable of being dispatched at any time and to any location as needed. Typically, the PN deploys three teams consisting of four divers each for technical diving operations.

The investigation into the disappearance of the cockfight enthusiasts has taken a significant turn following revelations by whistleblower Julie "Dondon" Patidongan, also known as Totoy. Patidongan alleged that the abductions were orchestrated by a syndicate with substantial control over the multi-billion-peso cockfight industry, particularly its online operations which expanded during the Covid-19 pandemic. This syndicate, referred to as the Alpha group, reportedly comprises 20 businessmen and influential investors who dominate all facets of the games.

The alarming disappearance of 34 cockfighting enthusiasts between 2021 and 2022 has drawn considerable attention. Investigators have suggested that these individuals were kidnapped and possibly subjected to retribution for alleged cheating in cockfighting events.