A soldier was killed in a recent encounter between government forces and a suspected rebel group in Bula, Camarines Sur.

The clash occurred in Barangay Lubgan where government troops engaged with around 10 suspected rebels following reports from residents about the group's presence.

According to the 9th Infantry Division (9ID) of the Philippine Army (PA), the armed group was allegedly involved in extortion activities in the area.

The military has not yet confirmed whether there were casualties among the rebels.

As of this writing, authorities are continuing their pursuit of the remaining members of the suspected rebel group to ensure the safety of the community.

"Mariing kinokondena [ng Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB)] ang mga atrocities na isinasagawa ng NPA o New People’s Army sa komunidad na talaga namang nagdudulot ng peligro at saka ng perwisyo doon sa lugar, kaya’t patuloy po ang aming misyon na makamit ang peaceful at insurgency-free na rehiyon," Maj. Frank Roldan, Chief of the Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO), 9ID, said.