1,400 Human Bone Fragments Found in the Philippines in Case Linked to Cockfighting Bets

^{File photo: Search operation for the remains of missing workers in Taal Lake}

Police divers in the Philippines have recovered around 1,400 human bone fragments from Taal Lake in an investigation linked to the disappearance of workers in the cockfighting betting industry, GMA News reported.

Search operations in the lake have been under way since July 2025.

Investigators have carried out 134 missions and recovered roughly 2,000 items, including human and animal bones, personal belongings and other potential evidence.

Forensic examinations later confirmed that around 1,400 of the fragments were human. The remains are being analysed through forensic, anthropological, radiological, dental and DNA tests. Identifying the victims is difficult because Taal is a volcanic lake with acidic and warm waters, which accelerate the degradation of bones and DNA.

The discovery is linked to the investigation into the disappearance of at least 34 workers from the cockfighting betting sector. The sector expanded sharply during the pandemic, when online cockfighting betting grew through live streams on digital platforms.

The industry has also been associated with allegations of rigged fights, violence and criminal activity.

Charlie “Atong” Ang, a well-known businessman linked to the gambling and cockfighting betting industry, has been named as one of the main suspects. Arrest warrants have been issued for him and several other people in cases involving kidnapping with murder and illegal detention.

^{Charlie “Atong” Ang}

Ang has denied the allegations. Authorities have offered a reward of 20 million Philippine pesos, or about €279,000, for information leading to his arrest.