RECONQUEST MAY TAKE TEAR OR MORE

Auckland Star, Volume LXXV, Issue 251, 23 October 1944, Page 5

RECONQUEST MAY TAKE TEAR OR MORE

PHILIPPINES PLAN

If Japs Chose To Defend Archipelago

N.Z. Press Association —Copyright Rec. 1.30. WASHINGTON, Oct. 22. Philippine sources in Washington said that the reconquest of the Philippines might require a year or- more if the Japanese chose determinedly to defend the archipelago. It was expected under General Mac Arthur s plan of splitting the defenders that clearing the large Palawan Island might involve heavy fighting becaμse the Japanese were reported some months ago to have concentrated considerable forces there.

The former Filipino Scouts have been reorganised by the Japanese and may number 25,000 to 30,000. Their commander, General Paul Ino Santos, is described as a notorious pro-Japanese and thoroughly dangerous.

Philippine sources described reports that General Mac Arthur had already landed over 250,000 troops as probably over-optimistic. It is considered that the number is probably not more than 150,000, but the forces are believed to be enough to complete the conquest of the central islands, where the Japanese probably don't have more than 75,000.

Japan's total Philippines forces, excluding labour and police units, are estimated at not more than 150,000, but it is emphasised that the Japanese will be able to send in reinforcements from Formosa if desired, despite American domination of the sea and air around the islands.

Amazing Embarkation Organisation The embarkation of troops and equipment at New Guinea ports for the Philippines invasion was on an amazing scale, reports an Australian war correspondent who accompanied the invasion forces. In one bay which a few months ago was a Japanese base, more than 100 ships were assembled, while others were dispersed to the horizon and beyond, says the special correspondent of the Kew Zealand Press Association in The naval bombardment which preceded the landing was the most intense put down in the Pacific war. The Australian cruisers' Australia and Shropshire fired more-than 500 tons of shells in direct support of the landings. . Preparation for the invasion included the printing of special currency by the United States Treasury for the exiled Philippines Government. This new money was issued to the troops who landed at Leyte and will replace the Japanese inflation currency which has skyrocketed prices. Rice which cost six pesos in pre-war days costs 1300 pesos under the Japanese regime. A book of dos and donts was also issued to every soldier. Troops were warned not to "talk down" to the Filipinos and that a "hi babe" approach to women would not be welcome. The booklet gave a concise outline of Philippine history and customs and also a language guide.