The Philippine Army formally activated the Scout Ranger Regiment’s Standby Reserve amid emerging external threats in ceremonies led by Army chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete at the elite unit’s headquarters in Camp Pablo Tecson, San Miguel, Bulacan, on Friday.
Nafarrete, himself a Scout Ranger, underscored the historic role of the elite unit and its enduring reputation for “spirit and stamina.”
During the ceremonies, he urged troops to adapt to modern security challenges “through innovation, intelligence, and unity.”
“In these changing dynamics of warfare, let us continue to adapt through innovation, through intelligence, and through the strength of our unity,” the Army Chief remarked.
Calling the members of the new reserve unit “veterans proven in battle,” the Army chief said their experience would serve as a critical resource for the nation.
“By activating this unit, we are preserving their skills and warrior ethos, ensuring these are passed on to the next generation,” he added.
The reserve formation is composed solely of graduates and retired members of the Scout Ranger Course, a program known for its rigorous training.
The activation is part of the Army’s continuing investment in troop development under Nafarrete’s leadership.
At present, the Army counts about 32,600 reservists assigned to Ready Reserve Infantry Battalions, with an additional 1.2 million personnel under standby reserve status.
