WASHINGTON -- The Philippines independence measure was signed by President Roosevelt at 12:20 p.m. today in the presence of Manuel Quezon and other Filipino leaders.
"This is a very happy occasion for you and for me," President Roosevelt said.
"I am very happy," Quezon said. "It redeems the pledge of the United States and is the honorable end of efforts to build a nation in the Far East with republican institutions.
"I have already expressed the gratitude of the Philippines to the President. The President said if the Filipinos invite him to attend the actual independence ceremonies, he would be there."
Quezon predicted the Philippines legislature will accept the bill.
Secretary of War Dern and Senator Tydings were among those present at the signing.
