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.

ECONOMIC SECTION

73

the demand of foreign markets of consumption in view of the
fact that the Philippines is a country essentially agricultural,
and as such is a natural fountain of supply for the countries
of the temperate zone. Desirous as is the increment of commercial interchange between the United States and the Philippines it is also advisable that at the same time we encourage
new markets for the exportable products of the country to pave
the way, in order that when this transitory state passes in
conformity with our wishes and we are given the attributes of
our own sovereignty we would find ourselves ready to agree
to commercial treaties on a plan of mutual advantage.
The Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine Islands has
been insisting repeatedly on building up a diversity of markets.
To look for and find new markets and enlarge those already
existing-needed for a well-balanced material progress of our
country-a systematic propaganda is needed to disclose possible new markets-their needs, requirements, tariff duties, etc.
The United States, England, Japan and other progressive nations which, because of their autonomous estate, maintain an
adequate diplomatic consular service, recognize the necessity of
maintaining commercial agents in the principal parts of the
world.
If the Philippine Legislature decides to adopt a program of
systematic development of our exterior commerce by means of
the organization of commercial agencies, it should do the planning immediately and in such a way that the commercial
agencies which would be established would be properly established, equipped, and furnished with all the necessary aids
in order to be able to give the efficient services which are expected of them and they should be managed by Commissioners
of Commerce and other necessary personnel.
Gentlemen, I have tried to make a brief sketch of what for
me constitutes the most salient phases of our economic program
for the time when we shall enjoy our own sovereignty. I have
not gone into details because it would require too much time.
I assure you that the Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine
Islands is ready and glad to help in defining an economic policy
which would increase the productive wealth of the nation and