102nd Division (Philippines)

The 102nd Division was a division of the Philippine Army during World War II. Formed as part of the rapid expansion of the Philippine Army in anticipation of war with Japan, the division was primarily composed of reservists and new recruits. Its area of responsibility generally covered parts of Mindanao.

The division played a role in the defense of Mindanao against the invading Japanese forces in 1942. Facing a better-equipped and more experienced enemy, the 102nd Division, along with other Filipino and American units, put up a resistance. However, the overall situation in the Philippines deteriorated rapidly, and the division was eventually forced to surrender following the orders of General Wainwright.

Many members of the 102nd Division who evaded capture, or who escaped from Japanese control, later formed or joined guerrilla units that continued to fight the Japanese occupation throughout the war. These guerrilla forces played a significant part in the eventual liberation of the Philippines, providing valuable intelligence and support to the returning American forces. The exact details of the 102nd Division's specific engagements and its organizational structure are subject to ongoing historical research and may vary depending on the source.