No ‘carpet bombing’ in 1945

In the article “Intramuros, Fort San Antonio Abad declared National Cultural Treasures” (Lifestyle, 10/8/18) on Manila’s fortifications, particularly Intramuros, reference was made to “the carpet bombing of Manila by the returning American forces in 1945.”

As a survivor of that battle, I can testify that there was no such “carpet bombing.” Gen. Douglas MacArthur had prohibited the use of airpower in the battle for Manila.

However, he could not prevent his ground commanders, who were encountering stubborn Japanese resistance, from employing artillery fire, which was heavy.

BENITO LEGARDA JR., former member, National Historical Commission, [email protected]