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.

LABOR SECTION

305

which the Philippines has assigned him, if the working conditions be dignified and elevated, placing them if not on the
same basis, at least on one similar to those that exist in the
more progressive countries of the world. There is nothing
worst than the wicked exploitation of labor, because the laborer, deprived of his forces and necessities, does not see in his
efforts but the mere desire of redeeming himself from his misery, forgetting until late, the exigencies and obligations he
owes his country.
The dignification of labor comes hand in hand with the
dignification of the laborer, and when the labor element is integrated by worthy men, they feel like the others, the need of
the stimulus, the eagerness to get away from the slavery, the
desire to enjoy a good living, stimulus, liberty and betterment
which is easier to obtain when their own country enjoys independence and is not found subjected to the fetters and impositions of any sovereign. With it is found. the fortitude of a
nation, for as the majority of the components of a country
belong to the labor class, the betterment of the greatest number
produces satisfaction and gratitude to all. And the country is
better when the people are satisfied and contented. We have
as a clear example of this the same North American Nation,
not to cite other countries, where the condition of labor are
truly elevated. I do not say that those same conditions be
the ones imposed in the Philippines, for neither is our country
rich nor has our production reached the wonderful marks
which exist in the United States. But I do suggest that
while we are going forward in our industries and our commerce that the conditions of labor be made more liberal, more
splendid, and better paid in order to prevent the Filipino
laborers from feeling neglected, forgotten, when they form the
principal elements in the enrichment of the nation. America
is now a great country, more so for its labor than for its wealth.
All admire and feel surprised at the progress of the United
States; but not all realize that that progress is due to a great
extent to the working element which, some with their muscles,
others with their intelligence and,all with the lively desire to
contribute to the aggrandizement of the nation, have done all