Undocumented Resistance Movements in Zamboanga Province During World War II

Abstract

After the surrender of General William Sharp in 1942, the Filipino-American forces in the Visayas and Mindanao fell into the hands of the Japanese Imperial forces. However, not all forces submitted to the Japanese aggressors. Some fighters in Mindanao, particularly in the Zamboanga Peninsula, continued their resistance with the support of the masses. The resistance movements in Zamboanga Province during World War II played a crucial role in the region—not only because of their bravery, but also due to their perseverance and patriotism, which contributed to the eventual expulsion of the Japanese from the province. This paper employed the descriptive-narrative qualitative research design and utilized interviews to acquire the necessary data. The primary objectives of this paper were to identify the undocumented resistance movements against Japanese forces in Zamboanga Province, specifically the experiences and challenges encountered throughout the duration of the war. Moreover, the study was limited to the to the southern section of the Zamboanga Peninsula—presently comprising Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay. The research participants were the living witnesses and those who participated in the resistance movements in areas such as Pagadian, Dumalinao, San Pablo, Ipil, Kabasalan, Siay, and Malangas. The findings of this research revealed that there were indeed undocumented resistance movements in Zamboanga Province identified as Scouts, Masa, and Dalangpanan. These names have never been appeared in books, published articles and other academic literature. This study aims to contribute additional knowledge to the historical discourse on guerrilla forces in the Philippines. This is the gap that helps complete the story of the people of Zamboanga Province during the Japanese Occupation from 1942-1945.