Marcos eyes boost in PH defense by enhancing First Scout Rangers capabilities

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is eyeing a boost in the country's defense by improving the operational capabilities of the Philippine First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSRR). 

The FSRR was formed in 1950 to counter local rebellions. It is the Philippine Army's elite unit that specializes in jungle-to-urban warfare, counterterrorism, and other special operations.

It was reactivated in the 1970s and 1990s to address evolving threats as it played a crucial role in campaigns against secessionist groups, insurgents, and terrorists. In the 2000s, the FSSR also engaged in an "all-out war" against the MILF and the MNLF. 

"Over the years, the First Scout Ranger Regiment has stood as a stalwart defender, showcasing unparalleled loyalty and soldiery, and professionalism... The specialized skills in warfare, counterterrorism, and special [operations] make you indispensable to our nation's security," Marcos said in his speech during the 73rd Founding Anniversary of the First Scout Ranger Regiment on Saturday.

Marcos is now eyeing to enhance the FSRR's capabilities to boost the country's defense against "emerging threats."

"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,” added the President.

Marcos, meanwhile, pointed out that the pursuit of lasting peace is a “pressing” national concern. He said that the issuing of Executive Order No. 47 amending EO No. 125, series of 2021, which creates the National Amnesty Commission (NAC), “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.

During the celebration, Marcos also acknowledged and honored the unit's awardees for their exemplary performance of their duties.

"I enjoin the Scout Rangers to continue to exemplify bravery, dedication, excellence, professionalism, courage in your mission of safeguarding and developing our nation," Marcos said.

In its anniversary, the FSRR paid tribute to its comrades who were Killed in Action (KIA) from the period of December 2022 up to this year:

• Corporal Jerwin L Caputol (Inf) PA, 8SRC – 19 December 2022
• Technical Sergeant Richard S De Jesus (OS) PA, 14SRC – 20 February 2023
• Private First Class Jemrick Pol B Cotingjo (Inf) PA, 9SRC – 31 May 2023
• Corporal Ernie Bryan U Ballera (Inf) PA, 17SRC – 19 July 2023

—Jamil Santos/ VAL, GMA Integrated News