Atin Ito First Filipino Community Newspaper in Ontario
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is banking on the elite troops of the Philippine Army (PA) to help him eradicate insurgency, communist rebellion, and terrorism to achieve lasting peace in the country.
This, as Marcos graced the 73rd founding anniversary of the PA’s First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSRR) at Camp Tecson in San Miguel, Bulacan on Saturday, Nov. 25.
In a statement Sunday, Nov. 26, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, chief of AFP public affairs office, said the Commander in Chief called on the FSRR to “continue exemplifying dedication and courage” in their missions, and support the amnesty he granted to rebel and insurgent groups.
“The amnesty proclamations issued under Executive Order (EO) No. 47 signify significant steps towards national healing and peace-building. As I stand before you today, [I] envision the 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 in his speech.
Through the signing of Proclamation Nos. 403, 4040, 405, 406 last Nov. 23, Marcos granted amnesty to members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPMP-RPA-ABB), Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to encourage them to return to the folds of the law.
Marcos also emphasized the importance of FSRR’s role in enhancing the country’s defense posture by effectively carrying out their internal and external defense operations.
“This event 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, the First Scout Ranger Regiment has stood as a stalwart defendant, showcasing unparalleled loyalty, soldiery and professionalism,” he noted.
Among the highlights of the anniversary was the recognition of outstanding officers, enlisted personnel, and various units of the regiment who have shown “exemplary skill, stamina, and spirit” in the performance of their duties.
The Commander-in-Chief was accompanied by Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr.; Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines (CSAFP) Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr.; Commanding General, Philippine Army (CGPA) Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido; and FSSR Regiment Commander, Brig. Gen. Isagani Criste.
The FSSR is an elite Army unit whose members specialize in anti-guerrilla jungle warfare, raids, ambushes, close quarters combat, and urban warfare. — Martin Sadongdong
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Credit belongs to: www.mb.com.ph
