The island is centrally located in southern Visayas, making it strategically important due to its proximity to Cebu, Leyte, and Mindanao.

In January 1942, 81st Division Headquarters units was ordered to Lanao and 81st Field Artillery Regiment to Cagayan in Mindanao Island.

In March 1942, Visayan Force was activated under Brigadier General Bradford Chynoweth, all units in the Visayas came under this new headquarters based in Cebu.

In April 19, Visayan Force was dissolved as it could no longer function as all communications are all cut off with the island.

However, Captain Ingiñero escaped inland in the mountainous area of the island to setup guerilla movement to continue fighting.