CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) lauded the members of the Philippine Army's 5th Infantry "Star" Division for its successful campaign against the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Northern Luzon.
"With the active participation of the Star Division in our whole of nation approach, the people of Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, and Cordillera Administrative Region felt significant economic progress, as well as peace and security in their communities," said General Andres Centino.
The AFP Chief of Staff presided over the celebration of the 41st founding anniversary of 5ID held at Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela. He was welcomed by Major General Laurence Mina, Commander of 5ID and Lieutenant General Ernesto Torres Jr, Commander of Northern Luzon Command.
The AFP top leadership recognized the Star Troopers for their recent achievements, particularly the employment of game-changer assets against CTGs in Cagayan.
The 5ID's conduct of focused military operations and effective coordination with other law enforcement agencies resulted in significant gains against the enemy.
It liberated 117 areas from the influence of communist terrorists; dismantled four guerrilla fronts; and neutralized 950 personalities, 18 of which were high-value individuals.
The Division also facilitated the withdrawal of support of 488 former communist sympathizers, recovery of 204 firearms, and the re-orientation of five former CTG-supportive organizations.
The 5ID also took the opportunity to recognize its outstanding military personnel and its civilian stakeholders during its anniversary celebration.
"The achievements of Star Troopers were possible given the avid support of our stakeholders who share our common goal of attaining genuine peace and inclusive progress," General Centino said.///(Photos by A2C Ted Castro PAF/PAOAFP)
