Marcos reaffirms support for Scout Rangers during Camp Tecson visit

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the capabilities and readiness of the Philippine Army’s First Scout Ranger Regiment while honoring the sacrifices of its troops.

Special Assistant to the President Antonio Ernesto F. Lagdameo Jr. delivered the message during a courtesy visit to the regiment’s headquarters at Camp Tecson on Wednesday.

Lagdameo conveyed the administration’s gratitude to the elite troops, whose demanding assignments often require prolonged separations from their families.

"On behalf of the Office of the President, I extend our sincere appreciation to the men and women of the First Scout Ranger Regiment for your courage, professionalism, and dedication to our country," Lagdameo said.

He stressed that the administration acknowledges the difficult realities faced by Scout Rangers, ranging from rigorous training and dangerous missions to long deployments.

Despite these challenges, he noted, troops continue to perform their duties with discipline and a strong sense of responsibility.

As evolving security challenges confront the nation, Lagdameo said the Armed Forces must continuously strengthen its capabilities and ensure personnel are adequately equipped.

During the engagement, administration officials listened directly to the regiment’s operational requirements and recommendations.

Lagdameo assured troops that their concerns would receive coordinated attention from relevant government agencies.

The regiment presented several key issues, including support for House Bill 9190, which seeks to amend the Blood Banking Law to allow the Armed Forces of the Philippines to operate a blood bank and train Scout Rangers in emergency field transfusion.

Other discussed matters included proposed resolutions for Scout Ranger Ville housing concerns, follow-throughs on proposed capability upgrades, securing the Duplas Jungle Base through a presidential proclamation, and addressing human rights vetting issues that impact access to specific equipment and training assistance.

Lagdameo also underscored the vital role played by military families, whose unwavering support sustains the troops.

He encouraged personnel to look after one another, maintain high standards of professionalism, and take pride in their service.

The visit highlighted efforts to prepare the next generation of soldiers, noting that 300 candidate soldiers began Basic Military Training at Camp Tecson on 30 September 2026.

Lagdameo toured the regiment's facilities, including the Scout Ranger School, the Military Operations on Urban Terrain Village, and the Integrated Firing Range.

A capability demonstration featured unmanned tactical drones, Scout Sniper operations, and team-level tactics,showcasing the integration of traditional military expertise with emerging technology.

Lagdameo concluded his visit with a tribute to the troops, wishing them safe missions and a secure return to their loved ones.

"Maraming salamat sa inyong katapangan, sakripisyo, at tapat na paglilingkod sa ating bayan," he said.