Ang Pahayagan

BULACAN — Government forces from the Philippine Army’s 73rd Division Reconnaissance Company (73DRC) clashed with around 20 armed insurgents on Friday afternoon, October 17, 2025, in the mountainous area of Sitio Balagbag, Barangay San Lorenzo, Norzagaray, Bulacan.

According to a military report, the firefight erupted around 2:40 PM while troops led by 2nd Lieutenant Michael Angelo A. Apostol (Inf) PA, under the operational control of the 703rd Infantry “Agila” Brigade headed by Brigadier General Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV, PA, were conducting combat clearing operations in response to reports from residents about the presence of armed men allegedly involved in extortion and subversive activities.

As the soldiers approached the target area, they were met with gunfire, prompting a ten-minute exchange of fire. The insurgents later retreated northwest, leaving behind one dead comrade, one M14 rifle, and five jungle packs.

No casualties were reported among government troops. The identity of the slain insurgent is still being verified by authorities.

Pursuit operations have been launched to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent them from regrouping. The Army also coordinated with nearby military units, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and local government officials to tighten security measures and block possible escape routes.

Brig. Gen. Osias lauded the troops’ discipline and swift response, crediting the success of the operation to the continued cooperation between the military and local residents.

“This successful operation reflects the vigilance and professionalism of our soldiers, as well as the growing cooperation between the military and the community,” said Brig. Gen. Osias. “We remain steadfast in ensuring peace and security in Central Luzon. I urge the remaining insurgents to surrender and avail themselves of the government’s reintegration programs so they can live peacefully with their families.”

The Philippine Army reiterated its commitment to sustaining internal security operations to neutralize lawless groups and safeguard communities in Bulacan and other parts of Central Luzon. (Jason de Asis)