The campaign to retake Manila came as part of the larger Philippine liberation effort during World War II. Following the Japanese invasion in 1942, the urban landscape of Manila had been heavily fortified, and the Japanese garrison was determined to hold the city. With the momentum shifting in favor of the Allies in the Pacific, General Douglas MacArthur, who famously vowed to return to the Philippines following his initial retreat, led a combined force of American and Filipino troops into battle. The operation was meticulously planned, with an emphasis on reclaiming key areas, including Intramuros, the historical walled city.

As February 1945 unfolded, the fighting intensified, transforming Manila into one of the bloodiest battlegrounds of the Pacific war. The tactics employed were aggressive, with forces advancing through heavily populated areas, leading to significant civilian casualties. Filipino guerrilla fighters played a crucial role, providing intelligence and supporting the assault. The brutality of the fighting reflected both the strategic importance of Manila and the ferocity of Japanese resistance. By the end of the month, the city would be dominated by Allied forces, but not without extensive destruction, as much of the infrastructure remained devastated.

The battle concluded with a decisive victory for the Allies, clearing the way for the restoration of Philippine sovereignty. The Philippines emerged from the war with a strong sense of nationalism, furthering their aspirations for independence. The liberation of Manila marked not only a significant military achievement but also a crucial moment in the history of the Philippines' struggle for self-governance against colonial powers.