Skirmishes On Various Fronts In Philippines

Northern Advocate, 10 January 1942, Page 5

Skirmishes On Various Fronts In Philippines

[British Official Wireless] (Rec. 11 a.m.) RUGBY, January 9. The United States War Department communique says that operations in the Philippine theatre were confined to desultory skirmishes in various sectors of the front. The enemy continues to move troops into the forward areas apparently in preparation for renewed attacks. Enemy air activity yesterday was limited to reconnaissance flights. U.S. Morale High The United States War Department communique states that in the Philippine theatre fighting of varying intensity is reported on all sections of the front. Japanese reinforcements are being brought up to the front and indications point to a renewal of offensives by the enemy. General MacArthur reports that the morale and determination of the and Philippine troops is high and they may be counted on to continue resistance with skill and courage. For the first time for several days there were no enemy air attacks on the fortifications in Manila Bay. Enemy air activity has been confined to reconnaissance. Futile Bombs on Borneo

A Dutch East Indies communique issued at Batavia states that on the morning of January 8 three Japanese bombers attacked Tarakan, in Borneo. One was shot down and the bombs dropped did not hit their target. Singapore Villagers Hit

A Singapore message states that seven people were killed and 11 wounded when bombs fell on a village in the Singapore area early this morning, demolishing two wooden huts. No military objectives were hit. Several raiders were caught by searchlights, and were fired at by ground defences. Mayor of Manila

An official radio broadcast announced that Senor J. B. Vargas, exsecretary to President Quezon, of the Philippines, is reported to have been appointed Mayor of Manila.

A Tokio broadcast for domestic consumption admitted that Japanese aeroplane losses during the siege of Hongkong totalled 81, which is double the figure previously announced in official international broadcasts.