Romulo. special and personal representative of the President of the Philippines. gave before the National Press Club in Washington on April 12. wherein he quoted the statement of President Magsaysay citing the desire for independence and free national existence as something which the Asian people have in common. When we granted full independence to the Philippines following World War II. we recognized this fundamental right of a people to govern themselves. Moreover. we kept our promise. which will always stand as a reassuring symbol of Americas true objective. The President of the Philippines must be looked upon as an Asiatic leader who commands respect. and it seemed to me that General Romulos reference to the presidents statement concerning Indochina is especially pertinent at this time. Therefore. Mr.