Remembering the 79th Anniversary of the Battle of Manila's Liberation

 

By: Claire Laroza

Photo By: Alona Myka Balbastro

Every year on February 3, we pay tribute to a significant event in our history - the Anniversary of the Battle of Manila's Liberation. This crucial battle was a part of the Philippine campaign that took place from 1944 to 1945.

The battle was waged in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, where U.S. and Filipino forces bravely stood against the Japanese invaders. The conflict, which lasted for a month, resulted in the city's destruction and the tragic loss of nearly 100,000 lives.

During the battle, Japanese troops carried out massacres of Filipino villagers, and American artillery also led to numerous casualties. The resistance from the Japanese and the American gunfire severely damaged most of Manila’s architectural and cultural heritage. The city of Manila was among the most devastated capitals during the war, comparable to Berlin and Warsaw.

The end of this conflict marked a significant turning point - the cessation of the Japanese military occupation in the Philippines, which lasted from 1942 to 1945. The successful capture of Manila was a critical component of General Douglas MacArthur's reconquest operations.

As we commemorate this day, we honor the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom and remember the heavy price paid for it.