A total of 159 Army soldiers and policemen earned the prestigious “Tabak” badge during the closing ceremony of Scout Ranger Course (SRC) “Nasiglat” Class 219-2022 at Camp Pablo Tecson, San Miguel, Bulacan on May 19, 2023.
142 Army soldiers and 17 policemen hurdled the 28-week SRC designed to develop soldiers into effective and lethal direct-action combatants that specialize in small unit tactics, combat tracking, and neutralizing enemies by maximizing the elements of surprise and speed. SRC is divided into four major modules: Individual Training Module, Small Unit training module, Combat Maneuver and Test Mission.
“When one lives and dies for the country, such life and such death shall never be in vain. To live and die for one’s country is an act of the highest honor and it is one that we are called upon to face, every single waking moment of our lives,” Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, who served as the guest of honor and speaker, said during the ceremony.
Sen. Dela Rosa also recounted his aspiration to earn the prestigious “Tabak” badge during his police officer days. His son Police Lieutenant Rock. C. Dela Rosa was among the 159 members of SRC Class 219-2022.
The senator also offered his condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones of Pfc. Modesto Lutob, a member of SRC Class 219-2022 who paid the ultimate sacrifice in an encounter at Barangay Geparayan de Turag, Silvino Lobos, Northern Samar. SRC Class 219 played a big role in attaining peace and development in Northern Samar. As part of their test mission, they were deployed to the province to go after CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) operating in the area.
Photos by Sgt Josel P. Sucayan PA/OACPA