PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday assured the First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSSR) of government support to enhance its operational capability in “defending the country against current and emerging threats.”
In his speech during the celebration of the FSSR’s founding anniversary in San Miguel, Bulacan, Marcos said it was crucial to prioritize capabilities that would “significantly contribute to our credible defense posture” as the country bolsters its external defense.
“To this end, the Department of National Defense will review the Scout Rangers’ capability requirements and pursue options that will enhance our operational capabilities and effectiveness to achieve the desired defense objectives,” Marcos said.
“By providing the necessary resources and support, we will enable the Scout Rangers, including our Special Forces Units, to support the Armed Forces as it transforms into a stronger and more reliable defense force capable of defending the country against current and emerging threats,” he added.
Marcos said the celebration of FSRR’s anniversary “is not just a celebration of history but a recognition of this unit’s pivotal role in confronting internal security threats and safeguarding our nation.”
Over the years, he said that the FSRR has stood “as a stalwart defender, showcasing unparalleled loyalty and soldiery, and professionalism.”
“From jungle to urban warfare expertise, our unit has evolved to meet the ever-changing challenges. The specialized skills in warfare, counterterrorism and special [operations] make you indispensable to our nation’s security,” Marcos said.
The President enjoined the Scout Rangers “to continue to exemplify bravery, dedication, excellence, professionalism, courage in your mission of safeguarding and developing our nation.”
“So, as we celebrate these achievements, let us also address a pressing national concern: the pursuit of lasting peace,” Marcos said, citing the amnesty proclamations issued under Executive Order 47, which he said “signify significant steps toward national healing and toward peacebuilding.”
“Our commitment to reconciliation and unity, reflected in the amnesty proclamation, aligns directly with the Scout Ranger mission. By providing a path for former rebels to return to the fold of the law, the national amnesty program contributes to the overall stability and unity in our country,” he said.
With that, the President acknowledged and honored the awardees for their exemplary performance of their duties, saying their “dedication and excellence inspires us all, gives us confidence that we have capable troops ready to defend our country.”
He also extended his deepest appreciation to the stakeholders who have supported and contributed to the betterment of the FSRR.
“As I stand before you today, envision a Philippines where the echoes of gunfire have dissipated, replaced by the laughter and hopeful voices of our children, echoing the promise of progress, of unity, of peace,” Marcos said.
The FSSR is one of the elite forces of the Philippine Army, specializing in anti-guerrilla warfare and counter-insurgency operations to address internal security threats, particularly those posed by terrorist groups and insurgent movements.
Established in November 1950, the unit was created to address the growing threat of communist insurgency, specifically to counter the Hukbalahap insurgency and other security challenges in the Philippines.
Since its founding, the FSRR has played a significant role in various military operations, including the Zamboanga Siege in 2013 and the Battle of Marawi in 2017.
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