Five of Ten Inmates Recaptured Following Jail Break in Batangas

LUCENA CITY, QUEZON — Ten prisoners escaped from the Batangas Provincial Jail in Ibaan on the morning of July 28, 2025, after overpowering a jail guard during an escorted transfer, according to police reports.

The Calabarzon Police Regional Office (PRO-4A) detailed that the breakout occurred when one inmate produced an ice pick and seized the guard’s firearm while being moved to the jail’s public utility area. Taking advantage of the ensuing chaos, several detainees fled on foot towards Barangay Quilo, leaving the jail facility in Barangay Malainin.

By Monday afternoon, authorities had apprehended five of the escapees, who surrendered voluntarily, said Lt. Col. Chitadel Gaoiran, spokesperson for PRO-4A. The remaining fugitives are still at large, prompting intensified pursuit efforts.

Batangas Governor Vilma Santos Recto has mandated a comprehensive investigation into the incident to determine security lapses and prevent future occurrences.

This incident has heightened concern over detention facility security protocols in the region.