After debating the merits of different directions in the summer, the US chose to liberate the Philippines as its next strategic objective. The island of Leyte was the initial target. Japan viewed holding Leyte as a priority and General Yamashita was tasked with ensuring its defense. General MacArthur came ashore on the first day of the assault and issued his famous address to the Filipinos: "I have returned..." After two months of intensive battle, US armed forces had effectively completed the capture of the island.