811.24596/12–2346: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Philippines (McNutt) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 23—3:50 a.m.]
994. Deptel 867, December 19[18], Roxas informed me verbally (a) Philippine Government does desire maintenance of US military bases in the Philippines and (b) Philippine Government does desire retention of such US troops as may be required for bases. He regards joint resolution No. 4 of the Congress of the Philippines approved July 28, 1945 as going even beyond “request Philippine Government regarding continuation American forces”. Resolution was adopted unanimously by Commonwealth Congress and signed by President Osmeña. Policy adhered to by present Congress and administration. He regards this as not “request” of any administration but mandate and settled policy Philippine people. Also points to his many public statements as confirmation continuing desire his Government for bases.
Joint resolution No. 4 after citing joint resolution US Congress approved June 29, 1944 states “the President of the Philippines is [Page 940] authorized to negotiate with the President of the US the establishment of the aforesaid bases so as to insure the territorial integrity of the Philippines, the mutual protection of the Philippines and the US and the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.”
Roxas also cites preamble to draft base agreement already tentatively accepted by both governments.
In view foregoing, recommend contracts relating to bases revised Annex A handed me in Washington not be cancelled.
Roxas asked Embassy for information nature contracts referred to. He hopes contracts to be continued will not include those for work in Manila area or other sites to be abandoned.22
- In telegram 901, December 27, noon, to Manila, Mr. McNutt was informed that “Matter referred President Dec. 24 … with recommendation statements contained urtel 994 Dec. 23 be regarded satisfactory indication wishes Phil. Govt. Decision will be cabled.” (811.24596/12–2646)↩