MANILA, Philippines – The government has temporarily halted the underwater search for the missing cockfighting enthusiasts in Taal Lake due to poor visibility and worsening weather conditions, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said .

“Coast Guard Underwater Search Operations utilizing its Tech Divers and ROV (remotely operated vehicle) was temporarily placed on standby due to continuous rainfall and surface runoff from the nearby river,” DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano told reporters Friday. “Elevated turbidity levels significantly reduced underwater visibility.”

The search was launched on July 10, days after whistleblower Julie Patidongan claimed that over 100 e-sabong victims were dumped in the lake.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla earlier confirmed that technical divers retrieved at least two sacks containing human remains. He also said investigators are now finalizing the collection of DNA samples from the victims’ relatives.

“We’re continuing to get DNA from the relatives of the missing e-sabong people. We are calling on them to come forward so we can build a DNA bank and identify the victims properly,” Remulla said.

After personally meeting Patidongan, Remulla hinted the witness may be holding key information: “He knows a lot of details. So, we have to know what he knows.”

To boost the case, the DOJ is also exploring assistance from the Argentine government, known for its success in identifying “desaparecidos” – the disappeared under Argentina’s past military dictatorship. (PNA)