As an effort to bring the 5th Infantry “Star” Division closer to the hearts of the citizens in its area of responsibility, the 5ID Museum was formally and officially opened to the public on May 2, 2023.
The Museum showcases the rich history and challenges faced by the Star Division. 5ID was originally known as the 5th Army Brigade on October 16, 1972. It was a major unit of the Philippine Army. Its first station was located in Camp Servillano S. Aquino in San Miguel, Tarlac. The first unit's territorial jurisdictions covered Zambales, Bataan, Bulacan, Pampanga, and a portion of Quezon - north of Umiray River.
According to Major General Audrey L. Pasia, Commander of 5ID, the idea to open the museum to the public is for them to get acquainted with the Startroopers. The Commander wants to bring the rich historical value of the 5ID to the public for Educational, Informational, and Entertainment purposes. He further stressed that it’s time to unclothe the sacrifices and heroism of the Startroopers and make it known to everyone. Furthermore, this is part of the transformation adhered to by the 5ID in relation to the Army Transformation Roadmap.
Some of the significant and distinguished victories of the 5ID that can be seen in the Museum are the heroism of Lt Mechor F Dela Cruz, the dismantling of the renowned Marag Valley in Cagayan as the Headquarters of the Far North Luzon Regional Party Committee of the Northern Luzon Commission of the New People’s Army, History of Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz, the recovery of the MV Karagatan in Digoyo Point in Palanan, Isabela with thousands of firearms and ammunitions and other triumphs.
Meanwhile, Ms. Natalie CB Almazan, Isabela Provincial Senior Tourism Operations Officer served as the Guest of Honor during the Open House Ceremony. In her speech, she encouraged everyone to take care of the museum as a reminder of the heroic acts of the Startroopers. The activity was also graced by City of Ilagan Councilor Jayveson Diaz, Councilor Reynante Agustin of Gamu, Isabela, Brgy. Captain George Gatering of Upi, Gamu, Isabela and Mr. Froilan Pareña, Master Teacher III of Isabela National High School.
The Open House Ceremony was witnessed and participated in by more than 120 Senior High School students of Gamu Rural High School and Isabela National High School with their advisers and ROTC students.