Philippine E-Journals

American Guerrilla Way of Life in Central Luzon

Violeta S. Ignacio

Discipline: History

 

Abstract:

American guerrillas in the Philippines, such as those in Central Luzon, were escapees and evaders from Japanese activity and civilians displaced from jobs as a consequence of World War II. For survival, they took to the mountains and hinterlands, organized or joined guerrilla bands, and employed ingenuity to address the need for basic necessities. In resisting the enemy, they experienced exciting moments, hair-raising adventures, and harrowing situations. However, it may be mentioned that guerrilla life was not always unpleasant. There were fiestas and funny moments. Guerrilla warfare was not part of the American soldier’s training in U.S. military schools. American guerrillas in the Philippines learned by experience the hard way. Many outlived the war through the help of loyal Filipinos who fought side by side with them and provided them with shelter, food and intelligence information. These American and Filipino guerrillas, who did not surrender to the Japanese military, laid the groundwork for the retaking of the Philippines by Gen. Douglas MacArthur.