The fierce monthlong Battle of Manila fought 70 years ago should not only be remembered for the destruction and loss of lives, but also for its strategic importance in the entire Pacific War, according to a Filipino historian.

Ricardo Jose, a history professor at the University of the Philippines, said that the successful liberation of Manila from the Japanese in March 1945 paved the way for the U.S. to start planning for the invasion of Japan.

"After Manila was taken, it became a major staging point," Jose said in an interview after speaking about the U.S. and Japanese strategies and tactics during the battle a conference last month titled "Manila, My City at War!"