740.00119 P.W./5–1749: Telegram
The Chargé in the Philippines (Lockett) to the Secretary of State
1295. On May 12 handed President Quirino aide-mémoire re Jap reparations and level industry as contained Depcirtel May 8, 1 a. m.,1 together with covering letter containing additional paragraph for use here taken from immediately following Deptel.
There was no opportunity discuss contents with President May 12. When I saw him this morning he said he was about go into meeting with Cabinet discuss problem. However, he said that those reparations already approved for Philippines prior this US policy decision should certainly be delivered. As long as there is blood in the Japanese turnip, he added, Japan should be forced turn over materials in partial restitution to those countries which it ravished, among which Philippines an outstanding example.
President said he appreciated US generosity and humanitarian attitude toward underprivileged suffering people but felt US more concerned alleviate aftermath war Japan than in Philippines which suffered so terrifically at hands Japan. He indicated that but for our undue concern Japan’s welfare we might automatically save American taxpayer nine hundred millions we now spend there annually.
[Page 749]I pointed out that our military withdrawal and cessation economic aid Japan would probably result its being taken over by Soviets or their agents which would place Philippines under immediate danger Communist domination. If President was influenced by this argument he did not show it.