From Cockfights to K*llings: Claims Link 100 Deaths to Taal Lake
TAAL LAKE – According to a whistleblower, as many as 100 sabungeros met a violent end before being thrown into the waters of Taal Lake.
A disturbing disclosure has surfaced as a former security guard, known only by the alias “Totoy,” came forward with claims that the actual number of missing sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts) far exceeds earlier estimates. While previous accounts reported 34 individuals missing, “Totoy” alleged that more than 100 people were abducted and k*lled due to alleged cheating in cockfighting matches and other forms of illegal gambling, including jueteng.
“Sa pagkakaalam ko, hindi lang 34 ‘yan. Mahigit 100 ‘yan. Kaya ako nananawagan sa lahat ng mga pamilyang namatayan, simula sa jueteng hanggang sa missing sabungero, lumantad na kayo at ako ang susi ng lahat,” he said in an interview with ABS-CBN News.
As per his statements, a number of victims were taken to Talisay, Batangas, near the area of Taal Lake, where they were allegedly tortured and murdered. “Totoy” claimed that the bodies were then disposed of in the lake to cover up the k*llings.
Having previously served as a farm manager and trusted aide to businessman Atong Ang, “Totoy” alleged that the executions were a result of the victims being caught cheating during cockfighting events.
“Gumagawa kasi sila ng mga kalokohan, pandaraya sa sabong,” he added.
He further accused Ang of orchestrating the k*llings to maintain order and credibility in the gambling operations.
Ang, however, has firmly denied any involvement in the alleged crimes. His legal counsel issued a statement strongly refuting the allegations and confirming plans to take legal action.
“The accusations against Atong Ang are entirely false, baseless, and malicious. He categorically and unequivocally denies any involvement in the alleged unlawful, heinous, and criminal acts that have recently been reported and linked to him,” Ang’s legal team said.
According to the report, “Totoy” also claimed that some members of the police force were tasked with dealing with suspected cheaters, sparking suspicions of possible complicity within law enforcement.
While the allegations are still being verified, authorities continue their investigation amid growing public concern and calls for justice.