NATIONAL – On the occasion of the 61st anniversary of the Special Forces Regiment Airborne (SFRA) at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija on June 25, President Ferdinand "BongBong" Marcos Jr. (PBBM) expressed his heartfelt appreciation and unwavering support to the SFRA, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the Filipino people.
He reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing their capabilities and protecting their well-being, as well as the well-being of their families.
The chief executive shed light on the government's dedication to empowering the SFRA by adopting the Riverine Operations Equipment Project (ROEP) as part of the ongoing modernization efforts within the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The ROEP aims to bolster the SFRA's expertise in riverine operations, specifically focusing on the seamless insertion and extraction of special forces personnel during rescue missions and other critical military operations.
During his address, President Marcos urged the SFRA to remain a pillar of support for fellow Filipinos in crisis, ensuring their safety and welfare. He commended the SFRA's exemplary proficiency in unconventional warfare strategies and emphasized the importance of continuous training and self-empowerment.
The momentous anniversary event was graced by esteemed guests, including National Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr., Special Assistant to the President Sec. Anton Lagdameo, and several members of the cabinet. Also in attendance were AFP Chief Gen. Andy Centino, Philippine Army Commander Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., Northern Luzon Commander Lt. Gen. Fernyl Buca, and Special Action Force Regiment Airborne Brig. Gen. Ferdinand Napuli.
President Marcos recalled the proud history of the SFRA, highlighting their remarkable achievements in wartime and peacetime operations. He took a moment to commemorate the SFRA's heroic search and rescue mission in March 2023, where they valiantly saved 316 individuals from a blazing passenger vessel en route to Jolo Port.
Furthermore, the President congratulated the exceptional individuals honored at the SFRA's 61st-anniversary celebration, recognizing their outstanding performance and immense contributions to the regiment. He hailed their self-sacrifice, unwavering resilience, and commitment to safeguarding communities, emphasizing their well-deserved title as the "Silent Professionals."
In closing, President Marcos conveyed the government's profound gratitude for the SFRA's unwavering dedication, cultivating trust and confidence in the military and the government. —iTacloban (with reports from PND)