2020 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Manila

The Philippine Postal Corporation (Post Office) issues stamps in line with commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Manila.

The Battle of Manila was one of the most decisive victories of the Second World War. From February 3 until March 3, 1945, Allied forces from the United States of America and the Philippines engaged the occupying Japanese forces in prolonged combat. This battle brought about incredible devastation to the capital; nearly flattening Manila while ending upwards of 100,000 civilian lives. Cornered Imperial Japanese forces retaliated mercilessly – violent crimes such as rape and mutilation were inflicted upon hapless Filipino civilians. It was a horrifying event that turned the previously vibrant city into a dreadful landscape. Eventually the city was recaptured by the Americans, and Manila was liberated from the Japanese occupation.

This stamp honors the men, women, and children who perished during the Battle of Manila 75 years ago. In the words of National Artist for Literature, Nick Joaquin, as inscribed on the memorial dedicated to the innocent lives lost: “We remember them, nor shall we ever forget.”