796.00/8–449: Telegram
The Chargé in the Philippines (Lockett) to the Secretary of State
confidential
Manila, August
4, 1949—4 p. m.
1894. Embtels 1805, July 25, 1859, August 1 and 1889, August 3.1 Quirino’s letter of instruction issued Romulo last night was result several long conferences between them. Department will note that Quirino in his instruction:
- (1)
- Speaks of the Pacific union primarily as union countries Southeast Asia, capital[s] of which Romulo is authorized visit;
- (2)
- Cites Baguio talks but makes only incidental reference China and none at all to Korea;
- (3)
- Directs Romulo sound out attitudes interested countries with view eventually inviting them to a conference at Baguio to discuss methods of closer political, economic and cultural cooperation for preservation peace, democracy and freedom in Asia;
- (4)
- Speaks of necessity hastening emergence Asian countries as independent nations;
- (5)
- States, without specifically mentioning Communism, that the great danger now confronting Asian countries is rising tide totalitarian subversion and conquest;
- (6)
- Mentions Delhi conference resolution for establishment suitable machinery for consultation between nations Southeast Asia without specifically stating that Pacific union is intended implement that resolution;
- (7)
- States union envisioned as in tune with work UN;
- (8)
- Asserts union would involve no military commitment;
- (9)
- Authorizes Romulo approach leaders other Philippine political parties in order obtain their support for Pacific union.
It will be observed that Romulo appears to have obtained President’s acceptance general substance his views on Pacific union as described Embassy’s reftels.
Lockett
- None printed. Telegram 1889 transmitted the text of President Quirino’s letter of August 3 in reply to Ambassador Romulo who was called home to handle the proposed union; the text was given the press the same day. (796.00/8–349)↩