The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recovered several sacks weighed down with sandbags during initial diving operations in Taal Lake on July 11, 2025.
Following a site assessment conducted the previous day, PCG deployed 30 technical divers to search for remains of missing sabungeros believed to have been dumped in the lake.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) received reports suggesting that the sacks may contain human remains, secured with sandbags to ensure they sink underwater.
PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab said three diving teams were assigned to explore locations suspected as dumping sites connected to the disappearance of sabungeros three years ago.
Cayabyab confirmed that the divers were fully equipped and ready for the operation, with an underwater remotely operated vehicle expected to join the search.
During the initial sweep, a white sack containing burned bones was recovered near the shoreline.
The items will undergo forensic examination to determine whether the bones are human and if they are related to the missing individuals.