In Manila, as the critical day approached, Gov.-General Augusti issued his general order as to special military service and his proclamation to the Philippine people. The latter is couched in vituperative and erroneously prophetic language, but both can be better appreciated from the following translated texts:—
Special Military Service
Whereas it is necessary to adopt every possible means for the defence of this territory and to render assistance to the army and the fleet in the approaching operations against the United States of North America, I order:
1. It is hereby declared that a state of war exists.
2. All public functionaries of the State and the municipalities, not exceeding 50 years of age and not physically unfit, are obliged to take up arms in defence of the country and serve whenever they are required. They will proceed, at once, to their offices and lodge their names and serve under their present chiefs.
3. All Spaniards and sons of Spaniards (although not born in the Peninsula) above the age of 20 and not more than 50, living in the Provinces, are also hereby required to take up arms.
4. All those not comprised in the foregoing are at liberty to serve as Volunteers.
(a) All native Spaniards who are not employed in the public offices.
(b) All those who are under 20 and more than 50 years of age, and who are strong enough to endure the fatigue of a campaign.
(c) All foreigners (except North Americans) who are domiciled in Manila or in the capitals of the Provinces.