Anniversary of the Liberation of the Battle of Manila

The Anniversary of the Liberation of the Battle of Manila commemorates the end of Japanese occupation in the Philippines’ capital city during World War II. This significant event marks the liberation of Manila by American and Filipino forces after a month-long battle that resulted in the city’s devastation and the loss of numerous lives.

Quick facts

When is it? February 3
Tagged as: Historical commemoration, World War II remembrance
What’s the hashtag? #BattleOfManilaAnniversary
When was it founded? Annually observed since the end of World War II
Who founded it? Established by the Philippine government to honor the liberation

History of the Anniversary of the Liberation of the Battle of Manila

The Battle of Manila began on February 3, 1945, as American and Filipino forces entered the city to liberate it from Japanese control. The month-long conflict resulted in the destruction of much of Manila and the loss of approximately 100,000 civilian lives. The battle ended on March 3, 1945, marking the end of Japanese occupation in the Philippines.

Timeline

February 3, 1945: Battle of Manila begins
February 5, 1945: American troops enter heavily entrenched Japanese sectors
February 6, 1945: General MacArthur declares victory prematurely
March 3, 1945: Japanese organized resistance ceases
February 18, 1995: Memorare-Manila 1945 Foundation erects the Shrine of Freedom

Upcoming Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	February 3	Monday
2026	February 3	Tuesday
2027	February 3	Wednesday
2028	February 3	Thursday
2029	February 3	Saturday
2030	February 3	Sunday

Observed

The Anniversary of the Liberation of the Battle of Manila is observed through various commemorative events, including wreath-laying ceremonies, historical exhibitions, and educational programs. Government officials, veterans, and citizens gather to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives during the battle and to celebrate the freedom achieved.

Fun Facts About the Battle of Manila

The battle was one of the fiercest urban conflicts of World War II in the Pacific theater.
Manila was considered one of the most devastated cities during World War II, alongside Berlin and Warsaw.
The 1st Cavalry Division earned its nickname “America’s First Team” by being the first U.S. Forces to re-enter Manila after its capture in 1942.
The battle fulfilled General Douglas MacArthur’s famous promise, “I shall return,” made when he was ordered to leave the Philippines in 1942.
The Manila American Cemetery and Memorial houses over 17,000 graves of American and Filipino soldiers who fought in the Pacific.

Quiz

When did the Battle of Manila begin?
Which general declared victory prematurely on February 6, 1945?
How many civilians are estimated to have died during the battle?

(Answers: 1. February 3, 1945; 2. General Douglas MacArthur; 3. Approximately 100,000)

FAQs

Q: Why is the Battle of Manila considered significant?
A: The Battle of Manila was crucial in ending Japanese occupation in the Philippines and was one of the most devastating urban battles of World War II in the Pacific.

Q: How long did the Battle of Manila last?
A: The battle lasted for one month, from February 3 to March 3, 1945.

Q: What was the impact of the battle on Manila?
A: The battle resulted in extensive destruction of the city and the loss of around 100,000 civilian lives, making it one of the worst urban battles of World War II.