Pacquiao graces Ranger anniversary

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The First Scout Ranger Regiments (FSRR) celebrated its 69th founding anniversary with reservist Sen. Manny Pacquiao as the guest of honor and speaker in Camp Tecson, Bulacan, last November 22.

The senator was accompanied by the Commanding General Philippine Army Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto alongside FSRR Commander Brig. Gen. William N. Gonzales.

“Through the years, the First Scout Ranger has evolved and faced a daunting task of rebuilding a more organized special operations force which is attuned to good governance and performance excellence- to create a world-class special operations force that can truly be a pride for every Filipino,” said Gonzales.

“We will strike towards excellence through good governance, we will strike towards the fulfillment of our national strategic objectives and to achieve the nation’s aspirations; a lasting peace to the country,” Gonzales added.

During the event, Army reservist Ronnie Liang was also donned with the probationary 2nd Lieutenant rank. A former finalist of the popular reality-talent search franchise Pinoy Dream Academy, singer and actor Liang finished his degree in Education major in General Science at the Holy Angel University in Pampanga where he also underwent the Reserve Officers Training Course (ROTC) in 2006. He cites his love of country in his decision to join the Army Reserve and promote ROTC in his own way as a celebrity. Last year, he enrolled at the APG Aviation Academy to fulfill his childhood dream to become a pilot. He is set to finish his studies this year. In line with this, he will be commissioned as a reservist under the Army’s Aviation Regiment, Armor Division.

On the other hand, Pacquiao gave his congratulations and commendation to the FSRR. “You have confronted a lot of challenges and you have overcome a lot of obstacles. Your victories through the years have equipped and empowered you to being transform into a world-class special operations force. Naniniwala ako na kayang-kaya ninyong harapin ang ano mang pagsubok pagdating sa counter terrorism,” he further said.

The FSRR is one of the Philippine Army’s elite units. Its main strength is in unconventional warfare such as anti-guerilla operations. Due to the evolving security threats, the FSRR has evolved into addressing urban warfare and counter-terrorism. In 2017, the FSRR is one of the key units involved in liberating Marawi City from the hands of ISIS-inspired Maute terrorists.

“The Philippine Army takes pride with having an elite unit like the FSSR. Their strength and world-class skills combined with the sacrifices and dedication of all the other troops, enable us deliver our mandate to secure the Filipino people and the country’s sovereignty,” said Alberto.#