President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered an in-depth investigation into the disappearance of cockfighting aficionados following the reported involvement of police officers in their case.

"To continue the investigation, an in-depth investigation to identify those who were involved here and make them accountable," Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said when asked what is the directive of Marcos on the investigation of the case of the missing cockfighting enthusiast.

Castro also assures that the Palace believes in the integrity of the Philippine courts despite reports that the mastermind on the disappearance was powerful and can influence even the Supreme Court.

"We believe in the integrity of our courts and it will be addressed based on the rule of law," she said.

The missing cockfighting enthusiasts were reportedly buried under Taal Lake. A witness claims that they were 30 of these.

In a previous television interview, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said that the agency is eyeing tapping Japanese technology in searching for them.

Remulla said the Japanese remotely operating vehicle (ROVs) and its equipment will be helpful in mapping the floor or the bottom of the lake.

"It will help us see what sediments we can check (underwater) to search for what we are looking for," he said. Robina Asido/DMS