Why did general Douglas MacArthur struggle to hold the U.S postions in the Philippines?

General Douglas MacArthur struggled to hold U.S. positions in the Philippines primarily due to a lack of resources and support, as the U.S. military was unprepared for the rapid Japanese invasion following the attack on Pearl Harbor. Additionally, the Japanese forces employed superior tactics and had the advantage of surprise, overwhelming Allied defenses. The logistical challenges of supplying troops in the archipelago further complicated the situation, ultimately leading to the fall of key positions like Bataan and Corregidor.