Manila.

Manawatu Herald, 25 September 1900, Page 2

Manila.

The report from the British Consu at Manila on the condition of trade there describes it as, on the whole, very satisfactory though whether when the cargoes which accumulated at the port are disposed of further exports will be forthcoming must depend upon the state of the interior Law and order are being restored as rapidly as possible, but the immense extent of the country renders this a difficult task. The consul believes the aatives would willingly return to their agricultural pursuits, but the influence of their leaders is still sufficiently strong to keep them from surrendering Prices have increased to such an ex* tent that Manila, which until recently was a cheap place to live in, is now the reverse. Hemp and tobacco, the two great industries of the island, must suffer for some time severely from the late insurrection, but there are now golden opportunities tor the employment of capital and talent in many local industries. Labour is ot great importance, and there is a strong prejudice against Chinese, but it will probably be found impossible to do without them, as the Filipino is naturally indolent. He makes an excellent clerk if well supervised; if not, he will spend his time in gambling and cock-fighting ; he has no commercial instincts, and care 3 little for money. Hence the Chinese are indispensable, but it is proposed to confine them to manual labour, and not to allow them to enter retail trades which they soon monopolise.