795.00/12–350: Telegram
The Chargé in the Philippines (Chapin) to the Secretary of State
priority
[Received December 2—11:19 p. m.]
1489. Depcirtel 221, December 1. US position and intended course action outlined reftel were conveyed Acting Secretary Foreign Affairs Neri afternoon December 2. He stated that Romulo had already reported matter to Philippine Government, that it had been taken up with President Quirino, and that reply was sent Romulo earlier in day which incorporated President’s views.
Neri stated that instruction envisaged active, categorical support for US position in regard Chinese intervention in Korea. He stated, however, that certain provisos were outlined in instruction sent Romulo: besides desiring know course action US proposed pursue in UN, Quirino was interested in ascertaining (1) results Truman–Attlee conversations and (2) how far US would go in support nations this part of world which are threatened by Communist aggression. He said Romulo had been instructed make appropriate inquiries. We have impression these inquiries motivated by Philippine Government fears Truman–Attlee conversations may result in our limiting our commitment Asia in favor of Europe.
Embassy officer pointed out that US has demonstrated in Korea its determination support nations threatened by Communist aggression, cited our attitude re situation Indochina as recently conveyed Philippine FonOff1 and recalled that we have reiterated our intentions [Page 1319] so far as Philippines concerned and are demonstrating willingness within limits our ability help other states showing determination help selves. Neri seemed satisfied and concluded with remark that Romulo frequently makes countersuggestions when sent instructions and that he would inform this Embassy should there be any substantial modification in Philippine position this matter as result such countersuggestions.
- For related documentation, see vol. vi, pp. 690 ff.↩