TACLOBAN CITY — The 8th Infantry Division honored the 74th Infantry Battalion during a send-off ceremony on December 23, 2025, recognizing the unit’s contributions to peace and security operations in Eastern Visayas.
Deployed in the division’s area of responsibility since February 17, 2023, the battalion operated under the 803rd Infantry Brigade in parts of Northern Samar, including Mapanas, Palapag, Gamay, and Lapinig. Its area of operations was later expanded on November 8, 2025, to include Leyte and Southern Leyte under the 802nd Infantry Brigade.
The 8th ID said the unit conducted combat, intelligence, and civil-military operations that led to the neutralization of 164 members of the Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army, the seizure of 69 firearms, the recovery of 37 improvised explosive devices, and the dismantling of 37 rebel hideouts.
Division officials said the battalion’s efforts helped improve security conditions in several areas of the region.
After completing its mission, the 74th Infantry Battalion will return to its parent unit under the 2nd Infantry Division for reassignment. The division also expressed gratitude to the battalion’s personnel and their families for their service.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
