Thank you to National Defense Secretary, Secretary Gilbert Teodoro. [As you were.]

Bulacan 3rd District Representative Lorna Silverio; Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner; the Philippine General – Philippine Army Commanding General, Lieutenant General Roy Galido; First Scout Ranger Regiment Commander, Brigadier General Isagani Criste; the troops, alumni and dependents present of the FSRR; fellow workers in government; distinguished guests; families of our service men na nakikita ko rito kasama sa ating pagdiriwang ng Foundation Day ng Scout Ranger; ladies and gentlemen, magandang umaga sa inyong lahat.

It is a momentous occasion that we gather today as we commemorate the 73rd Founding Anniversary of the First Scout Ranger Regiment.

Allow me to share a personal chapter from my journey — a chapter written in the hallowed halls of the Scout Rangers, where I once stood shoulder to shoulder with dedicated comrades, driven by a common purpose to defend and uphold our nation.

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 defender, showcasing unparalleled loyalty and soldiery, and professionalism.

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 nation’s security.

So, as we bolster our external defense, it is crucial to prioritize capabilities that will significantly contribute to our credible defense posture.

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.

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. [applause]

So, as we celebrate these achievements, let us also address a pressing national concern: the pursuit of lasting peace.

The amnesty proclamations issued under Executive Order (EO) No. 47 signify significant steps towards national healing and towards peacebuilding.

Our commitment to reconciliation and unity, reflected in the amnesty proclamation, 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.

With that, I wish to acknowledge and honor the awardees today for their exemplary performance of their duties.

Your dedication and excellence inspires us all, gives us confidence that we have capable troops ready to defend our country.

I also extend my deepest appreciation to the stakeholders who have supported and contributed to the betterment of the FSRR.

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

As I stand before you today, envision a 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.

Let this vision ignite the flame of hope within each heart, for together, we are sculpting an insurgency-free, secure, and harmonious Philippines, where the dreams of our people flourish unhindered.

Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas! Mabuhay ang FSRR, and Happy Birthday to our Scout Ranger here today.

Magandang Umaga sa inyong lahat.