SAN MIGUEL, Bulacan—President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced the national government’s capability and enhancement support to be given to the First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSRR) unit of the Philippine Army to bolster support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) during its 73rd founding anniversary celebration on Saturday held at its headquarters in Camp Tecson, Barangay Tartaro this town.
The President said the Department of National Defense will review the capability requirement of the FSRR to atrongly support the AFP in safeguarding the country’s national security.
“The Department of National Defense will review the capability requirement of the FSRR to pursue options that will enhance its operational capabilities to achieve the concerns in our defense objective. By providing the necessary resources and support, we will enable the FSRR including the Special Forces with the objective to support the AFP as it transforms to become stronger and more reliable that is capable of defending our country against current and emerging threats,” he said before army, police officials and members and residents including Bulacan Vice Gov. Alex Castro and Third District Rep. Lorna Silverio.
The AFP Commander-in-Chief paid tribute to the FSRR as he hailed its officers for being in the forefront of the protection and fight to defend the nation.
“The FSSR over the years is driven with one common purpose, which is to defend and uphold our nation. This is not only in celebration of their anniversary but also in recognition of the unit’s role in confronting internal security threats and safeguarding our nation”.
“From jungle to urban to warfare expertise, our unit evolved to meet the ever changing challenge through their specialized skills in warfare and in counter terrorism, special ops which make it indispensable for our nation’s security,” the President added.
According to the President, the country faces today a pressing national concern which is the pursuit of lasting peace. He said the amnesty proclamation through Executive Order No. 47 is a significant step towards national healing that reflects reconciliation and unity that directly aligns with the scout ranger mission. The national amnesty program also contributes to the unity and stability in the country, the President added.
Mr. Marcos pins medals to FSRR awardees. He said he acknowledges and honors the awardees for their exemplary performance of their duties.
“Their exemplary performance of their duties gives us confidence that we are ready to defend our country,” he also said.
The President enjoins the FSRR unit to continue to exemplify bravery, dedication, excellence, courage and professionalism in their mission in safeguarding and developing the nation.
“Your dedication inspires us all that the gun fires will decipitate and be replaced by the laughters of our children through progress and peace”.
The President through a wreath laying at the FSRR monument also honors four FSRR men–PFC Jerwin Caputol of the 8th Company who was killed during focused military operation against Abu Sayyaf Group Members at Barangay Kaunayan, Patikul, Sulu on Dec. 19, 2022; PFC Jemric Pol Cotingjo of the 3rd Battalion Company who was killed during sustained focused military operation against Dawlah Islamiyah-Lanao at Barangay Piangolo, Lanao del Sur on May 31, 2023; Cpl. Ernie Bryn Ballera of 17th Scout Ranger who was killed by a riding tandem while waiting for an informant at Little Cebu, Lamitan City, Basilan on July 18, 2023 and TSg Richard de Jesus of the 14th Scout Ranger who was killed by unidentified riding in tandem at Barangay Mebak, Sumisip, Basilan on February 21, 2023.
FSRR Commander Col. Isagani Criste said the sacrifices made by their men were testament to the spirit of the bravery of the men and women of the FSRR.
He said the FSRR will continue with its role and mission of providing peace and security including territorial defense to defend our state and our mother nation from all threats.
FSRR specializes in anti-guerrilla jungle warfare, urban warfare, close quarters combat and other special military operations.
