The Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) will integrate special operations training into the standard career path of its personnel, aiming to enhance combat readiness and raise the bar for all troops.

PMC Commandant Major General Vicente MAP Blanco III said the move aims to expand the skill set of all Marines, not just those in elite units, “so they are better prepared for the demands of modern conflict.”

Under the revised training plan, all Marines will gradually receive advanced combat skills training and instruction in special Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) for small units, amphibious operations, covert and amphibious reconnaissance, integration in joint and interagency operations, and other specialized skills.

These were previously concentrated in the PMC’s elite units such as the Force Reconnaissance Regiment.

“Our Marines have always been known for their toughness and adaptability. But we can no longer afford to keep advanced combat skills limited to a few,” Blanco said.

“Every Marine must be ready—not just for conventional warfare, but for the kind of missions that require speed, precision, and a different level of training demanded by our current and future operating environment,” he added.

The Marine commandant acknowledged that the move was an ambitious undertaking. He, however, stressed that the goal was to build a more agile and capable force across the board without compromising safety, readiness, or morale of the troops.

“We know this won’t be easy,” he said. “We’re asking a lot from our Marines, but we believe in them. We’ll do this step by step, with the right support and with care for each Marine’s growth and well-being,” he noted.