Its history is as follows:-- On May 16, 1898, J.M.Basa, a Filipino, who had lived in Hongkong since 1872, on account of his connection with the troubles of that year, wrote letters [29] to a number of friends recommending the widest possible circulation of a proclamation enclosed therewith, as an aid to the American policy in the Philippines "in the war against the tyrannical friars and the Spaniards." With these letters there were sent two different proclamations, each beginning with the words "Fellow Countrymen." The first, which is the one referred to by Blount, continues:-- "Divine Providence places us in a position to secure our independence, and this under the freest form to which all individuals, all people, all countries, may aspire.
"The Americans, more for humanity than for self-interest, attentive to the complaints of so many persecuted Filipinos, find it opportune to extend to our Philippines their protective mantle, now that they find themselves obliged to break their friendship with the Spanish people, because of the tyranny they have exercised in Cuba, causing all Americans, with whom they have great commercial relations, enormous damages.
"At this moment an American fleet is prepared to go to the Philippines.
"We, your fellow-countrymen, fear that you will make use of your arms to fire upon the Americans.

No, brothers; do not make such a mistake; rather (shoot) kill yourselves than treat our liberators as enemies.
"Do not pay attention to the decree of Primo de Rivera, calling on you to enlist for the war, for that will cost you your lives: rather die than act as ingrates toward our redeemers, the Americans.
* * * * * "Note well that the Americans have to attack by sea, at the same time avoiding reinforcements which may come from Spain; therefore the insurrection must attack by land.

Perhaps you will have more than sufficient arms, as the Americans have arms, and will find the means to aid you.
"Whenever you see the American flag, bear in mind that they are our redeemers." [30] On the margin is written: "Viva, for America with the Philippines!" Apparently what Basa here means by independenee is independence from Spain, for it is known that he was in favour of annexation to the United States, and in the second proclamation we find the following:-- "This is the best opportunity which we have ever had for eontriving that our country (all the Philippine Archipelago) may be counted as another Star in the Great Republic of the United States, great because of its wisdom, its wealth, and its constitutional laws.
"Now is the time to offer ourselves to that great nation.

With America we shall have development in the broadest sense (of advancement) in civilization.
"With America we shall be rich, civilized and happy.
"Fellow patriots, add your signatures to those which have already been given.

Explain to all our fellow eountrymen the benefits of this change, which will be blessed by Heaven, by men and by our children.
"Viva America with the Philippines!!!" [31] The letters were undoubtedly given to Aguinaldo for delivery on his arrival.