The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898 — Volume 06 of 55 eBook

This eBook from the Gutenberg Project consists of approximately 289 pages of information about The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898 — Volume 06 of 55.

The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898 — Volume 06 of 55 eBook

This eBook from the Gutenberg Project consists of approximately 289 pages of information about The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898 — Volume 06 of 55.

7. That, in order that instruction may be furnished, something be added to the tributes. Seventh:  In order that instruction may be provided—­not only where there is none, but also where there is some, but not sufficient—­his Majesty should cause something to be added to the tributes, and the rates of taxation to be cleared up; for now they are very much confused, and give rise to many quite serious scruples.  And the tributes should be assigned in terms of Castilian reals, for hitherto they have generally been collected by the standard of eight reals, and they could be raised to ten reals, provided that it be not permitted to compel the Indians to pay in any assigned article; but that they be allowed to pay in money, if they have it, or if they wish to give it, or in any other sort of their products or means of gain, or as these shall have value.

8. That tithes be paid, as is the custom in Mejico. Eighth:  In order that this increase of tributes may be more justifiable, it should be announced that the encomenderos shall pay the tithes; and therefore they desire, and request his Majesty to have these paid according to the custom and manner of Mexico—­for, as until now there have been no bishop, curates, or system in government, and no church, these have not been paid.  And now, although to many it appears just, and they would do it, many more refuse to do it; and thus, between them both, nothing is done.

Chapter second.  Of matters pertaining to the city of Manila

1. That public property be given to the city of Manila. First:  It should be suggested to his Majesty that he cause some public property to be granted to this city, for all its affairs, of peace and of war, of government, conservation, and defense, and for suits that may arise in defense of it and its increase; and that, for this purpose, he cause that some Indians be given to it, or something from the duties, or the warehouses or shops, which, on account of the Chinese and other traders, could be applied to the public property of the said city.

2. That the three per cent duty imposed by Don Rronquillo, be not paid. Second:  His Majesty should order that the three per cent duty, imposed by Don Goncalo Ronquillo, be not paid in this city, because of the extreme newness and poverty of this country; and because the citizens assist in many other matters that its newness demands, and these duties cannot assist at all in increasing and enriching the settlement and country.

3. That no duties, especially on food and supplies, be paid at any port in these islands. Third:  We ask that none of those coming from outside to the port or ports of these islands—­as Chinese, Portuguese, Japanese, Siamese, Burneans, or any others—­shall pay any duties, especially on food, supplies, and materials therefor, so that the country may be advantaged and enriched; and because on account of these duties, the Chinese experience many annoyances, and the frequency of their coming is hindered; and since thus result the inconveniences which, as his Majesty orders by a decree, should not be allowed to occur.  Of everything else connected with this matter, the person who is going on this business will give information in detail, and as is required.

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The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898 — Volume 06 of 55 from Project Gutenberg. Public domain.