Gov’t to boost Scout Rangers for enhanced defense

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday committed to providing government support to advance the operational capabilities of the Philippine Army's First Scout Ranger Regiment so it can help boost the country's defense posture. 

Attending the 73rd SSR's founding anniversary in Camp Tecson in San Miguel, Bulacan, Marcos underscored the need to prioritize the troops' capabilities parallel to the country's bid to enhance its external defense operations. 

Marcos said the Department of National Defense will review the Scout Rangers' capability requirements and "pursue options that will enhance its operational capability and effectiveness to achieve the desired defense objectives."

"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 said. 

The FSRR — a Philippine Army's elite unit that specializes in jungle-to-urban warfare, counterterrorism and other special operations — has been crucial to countering local rebellions since its establishment in 1950.

It then was reactivated in the 1970s and 1990s to address evolving threats as it played a crucial role in campaigns against secessionist groups, communist insurgents and terrorists, specifically against the Hukbalahap insurgency and other security challenges in the Philippines.

In the 2000s, the FSSR also engaged in an "all-out war" against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation Front operating in Mindanao. 

The elite unit also played significant roles during the Zamboanga Siege in 2013 and the Battle of Marawi in 2017.

Marcos said the commemoration of the FSSR's 73rd 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."

He lauded the Scout Rangers for being "stalwart defenders" of the country and demonstrating loyalty and professionalism for more than seven decades.

"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 national security," the President noted.

"I enjoin the Scout Rangers to continue to exemplify bravery, dedication, excellence, professionalism and courage in your mission of safeguarding and developing our nation," said Marcos, adding that FSSR operations serve as a huge help in government efforts to achieve "an insurgency-free, secure, and harmonious Philippines where the dreams of our people flourish unhindered."

He also mentioned the recent issuance of proclamations granting amnesty to former rebels as a significant step toward "nation-healing and peace-building."

"As we celebrate these achievements, let us also address a pressing national concern—the pursuit of lasting peace," Marcos said.

"Our commitment to reconciliation and unity reflected in the amnesty proclamation aligns directly with the Scout Ranger mission. By providing a path for formal 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.