The Archive · 1896

Political Uneasiness in the Philippines

Although the Press in Manila is practically muzzled by the authorities, it has Jeaked out that some sort of conspiracy has been discovered among the natives in the Philippines, which has caused some uneasiness and led to the arrest of some four hundred persons. The rule of the priest is net altogether popular even with the mild and easy-going native, and it is believed by some persons that there is a widespread discontent among the people. The priests, conscious of the danger of any revolt against their authority, are agit for more Spanish troops being sent out to the Philippines. At present there are only about 1,500 Spanish soldiers in the garrison and the navy is principally manned by natives. The priests desire reinforcements from Spain, and will probably obtain their wish. Meantime, as an indication of the trend affairs are taking, the Madrid Government have sanctioned an increase in the import xnd export duties. As if there were not sutlicient imposts on the trade in these islands! The excitement in Manila has been kept very quiet, and is now apparently subsiding.

Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.

Your account