Importance of Manila

As the capital of the Philippines, Manila has an important role for several reasons. In 1942, it is a sign of the Japanese military’s early success, overwhelming the American presence there and driving MacArthur out against his will. By 1945, it symbolizes their decline, as MacArthur arrives to retake the city ahead of the assaults on Japan’s mainland. Even then, it is the scene of Japanese belligerence and savagery, as factions of their military refuse to retreat or surrender, but continue to strike at Americans even if it means their own deaths. Before they are defeated, they also commit horrible crimes against the Filipino population, including mass slaughter and rape.