Question & AnswerQ&A (Acts No. 4269)
The purpose of Act No. 4269 is to authorize and provide for the reclamation of a certain area of land in Manila Harbor to be used as a site for the residence and offices of the United States High Commissioner and other representatives to the Philippine Islands.
The Act authorizes the reclamation of an area in Manila Harbor, generally two hundred meters in width, adjoining and extending along Dewey Boulevard for a distance of four hundred forty-two meters, containing approximately 88,553 square meters, situated in the District of Ermita, City of Manila.
The absolute ownership and title of the reclaimed land are recognized and confirmed to the United States of America under the terms and conditions stated in the Act.
The United States is granted the right to construct and maintain a small boat landing adjacent to the reclaimed area, along with any riparian or littoral rights appertaining to the land.
The confirmation and grant are effective and binding only when approved and accepted on behalf of the United States of America by the President thereof.
The Governor-General is authorized and empowered to execute a patent in favor of the United States, record it in the Register of Deeds of Manila, and ensure the issuance of a Torrens title to the United States for the property.
No, the United States is not required to pay any taxes, assessments, or other levies on the land or improvements placed thereon, either to the Philippine government or any of its subdivisions.
Upon request of the proper U.S. authority, the Secretary is authorized to provide and arrange for the deposit of dredge spoils within the reclamation area free of charge for maintenance of the port of Manila.
The Act takes effect on the date of proclamation by the Governor-General that the Act has been approved by the President of the United States, as provided in section nine of the Act of Congress of August 29, 1916.
The boundaries and area are detailed in a survey plan by Marcial Zamora, Public Land Surveyor, approved on September 6, 1935, and filed as S.W.O. 14186 in the Bureau of Lands, including precise metes and bounds and references to landmarks.