Proceedings of the first Independence congress : held in the city of Manila, Philippine islands, February 22-26, 1930 / Published under the direction of Dean maximo M. Kalaw, executive secretary, University of the Philippines.

THE INDEPENDENCE CONGRESS
MANIFESTO
Manila, January 22, 1930
To the Filipino People:
We have come upon a crucial period in our history.
A final decision as to our relationship with America
seems to be forthcoming. The American Congress is
seriously discussing and considering the Philippine
question. Reports are daily received from Washington advising us of the various measures proposed and
of the steps contemplated. In the face of these new
developments, we in the Philippines cannot, must not,
remain passive.
It is not enough for us merely to continue assuming
the fact that the Filipino people, regardless of creed,
class or party, from Batanes to Mindanao, have long
aspired for immediate independence. Our history is
replete with undisputable proofs of this firm and vehement aspiration. We have eloquently manifested it in
our wars with Spain and America and have been writing
it on every ballot for the last twenty-five years. But
all these are not sufficient.
While the prospects for our freedom are brighter
now than ever before, there can be no absolute assurance that the outcome of the present agitation will be
in our favor. The opponents of the cause are still
strong and influential. On the other hand, our leaders
who are directing the struggle for our freedom must
ever drink from the fountain of popular inspiration.
It thus becomes imperative that the attitude and
desires of the Filipino people should at this time
be again made articulate and their counsel sought
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