Module 3: Submission Portal
Reflection Paper on the Benevolent Assimilation Proclamation
Question 1: After the Philippines declared Independence from the Spaniards in July 1898,
it has been known that Spain sold the Philippines as part of their agreement to make peace
with the USA. As a result, the Philippine forces were turned over to the USA.
Question 2: The colonization of the USA to the Philippines made a significant impact on our
country and influenced our culture and governance, which we still practice today. We believed
that Americans were our allies because they were the ones who supported us in gaining our
freedom from Spain. However, the Americans suddenly took control of our country's forces
and ruled us under their thumb. Their colonization is not considered justifiable because they
proclaimed sovereignty over us and once again taking away our country's Independence.
Question 3: Aguinaldo immediately pointed out General Otis calling himself the "Governor
Militar of the Philippines." He called against their sudden act and protested with all his soul
that the sudden proclamation was unauthorized. He mainly focused on the agreement that
was initially discussed and stated that the war against Spain was not for the benefit of the
United States but the country's liberty and Independence.
Question 4: Yes, we were betrayed by the United States of America. Aguinaldo claimed that
he did not agree or allow anyone to proclaim American sovereignty over the Philippines. He
was only aware that they invited him to come home to the Philippines to join forces with
Americans to fight against the Spaniards and finally gain Independence from them. He
continued by saying that he is strictly against the unexpected act of the Americans for
deceiving him to believe that they supported us against the Spanish, only to take over our
country and betray him.
Question 5: Despite the strong forces of the Americans, Emilio Aguinaldo stood his ground
and did not hesitate to publish his response to the Proclamation of President William
McKinley. He set aside the possibility of discussing this privately with the Americans and
chose to speak up for the Filipinos and the country. His words and action represent the
determination and commitment that we should have in our country and that we should not be
afraid to use our voice to stand for what is right and just.
