The Pittsburgh Press (July 5, 1946)
New nation born in Pacific as Philippines get freedom
President Roxas declares republic is tied to principles of American Constitution
MANILA (UP) – Filipinos stood bareheaded in a pouring rain yesterday as the Stars and Stripes were lowered and a new flag was raised over their islands symbolizing the birth of a new nation – the Republic of the Philippines.
Tolling church bells and wailing sirens mingled with the roar of a 21-gun salute as the new democracy came into being.
President Manuel A. Roxas and Vice President Elpidio Quirino were sworn in to lead the new nation during its formative years.
“From this day forward,” Roxas said, “our international responsibility is absolute. As we are masters of our own destiny, so too we must bear all consequences of our actions.”
Roxas raises flag
Ambassador Paul V. McNutt, former U.S. high commissioner of the Philippines, personally hauled the American flag down from the flagstaff as “The Star-Spangled Banner” was played.
President Roxas then raised the Philippine flag – a red, white and blue banner with a sun and three stars.
Roxas declared that America’s flag was not being lowered in surrender, or by compulsion. “In the hearts of millions of Filipinos,” he said, “it flies more triumphantly than ever before.”
‘Choice has been made’
“Our alliance now must be firm and unshakeable, and our loyalties strong and enduring,” Roxas said. “I judge that our choice has been made.”
“In the presence of our honored guests today and in the presence of the representative of the sovereign American nation, I state my firm conviction that we already have subscribed irretrievably to the principles of the American Declaration of Independence and the American Constitution.”
Gen. Douglas MacArthur, whose arrival brought a mighty cheer from the estimated 100,000 persons gathered for the ceremonies, said the United States “will continue to assist the Philippines in every way possible.”
Agreement signed
“For 48 years our Army has stood on these shores,” Gen. MacArthur said. “An Army of free men dedicated to humanity’s higher service, its role has never been to rule, never been to subjugate, never been to oppress … the United States has faith in the ability and in the determination of the Philippine people to solve the problems confronting their country.”
President Roxas and Mr. McNutt signed an executive agreement implementing the Bell Trade Act governing trade between the United States and the Philippines and a temporary agreement for establishment of diplomatic and consular relations.