Tropical Depression (TD) “Crising” has added to the challenges faced by Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) technical divers searching for evidence in the disappearance of 34 cockfighting enthusiasts in Taal Lake, Laurel, Batangas.
PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab said operations depend on weather advisories and data from Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), including lake conditions and current.
TD Crising, previously a low-pressure area, developed on July 16 and was located 725 km east of Virac, Catanduanes, according to PAGASA.
Apart from weather disruptions, divers reported skin irritation—possibly caused by Taal Volcano’s Alert Level 1, which releases fine particles into the air.
Should diving operations be suspended, Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel will secure the site against tampering.
Cayabyab emphasized the PCG’s role in seeking truth and justice for the missing individuals’ families.
On its sixth day, the PCG used a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to navigate the murky waters and locate suspicious debris before deploying divers.
Cayabyab clarified that the search is not confined to the site cited by whistleblower Julie “Totoy/Dondon” Patidongan.
She said intelligence reports and coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ) have helped pinpoint priority areas for exploration. (Martin Sadongdong)
