The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898 — Volume 10 of 55: 1597-1599; Explorations by Early Navigators, Descriptions of the Islands and Their Peoples, Their History and Records of the Catholic Missions, as Related in Contemporaneous Books and Manuscripts, Showing the Political, Economic, Commercial and Religious Conditions of Those Islands from Their Earliest Relations with European Nations to the Close of the Nineteenth Century
History
The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898 — Volume 10 of 55: 1597-1599; Explorations by Early Navigators, Descriptions of the Islands and Their Peoples, Their History and Records of the Catholic Missions, as Related in Contemporaneous Books and Manuscripts, Showing the Political, Economic, Commercial and Religious Conditions of Those Islands from Their Earliest Relations with European Nations to the Close of the Nineteenth Century
Demarcation line of Alexander VI; Missions -- Philippines; Philippines -- Discovery and exploration; Philippines -- History -- Sources
135. They have been seen to receive into their houses, from collectors
and others who were bringing goods to the treasury, great amounts
thereof, which they employ in their own affairs and needs, not
depositing them in the treasury for a long time.
136. They have used the royal tributes of rice, wine, gold, and cloth
in the same way.
137. The royal warehouses were entirely under the control of the
factor for a long time, with less assurance of safety than if they were
under the control of all three officials. Some time ago, they were put
under control of all three, but these have entrusted the keys to three
servants or followers. This arrangement, far from increasing the royal
estate, is an excuse for them to draw pay from the royal treasury;
and it does not satisfactorily fulfil the royal intention--namely,
that these officials should carry the keys on their own persons,
in order to avoid all damage and loss to the royal stores.
138. There is little interest taken in selling and administrating
the goods in the storehouses before they are spoiled, as has been
the case with much of their contents.
139. The timely use of rice and other supplies, and the cutting of
wood for the ships is not considered. This necessitates greater cost
and damage afterwards.
140. In the expenditure for repairing ships and other royal vessels
made in Cavite, there has been spent much more than appears by
Master de Ribera's statement, which was verified only by his word and
oath. This is a very extensive scheme, in which there may have been
considerable loss and fraud between the factor and Master de Ribera,
because the expense has been very heavy and is not clearly stated.
141. Galleys, vireys, caracoas, fragatas, and other royal vessels
have been lost because of inadequate shelter.
142. There are many places in which are employed sailors, gunners,
calkers, coopers, and other seafaring men, who are superfluous,
unnecessary, and of no service. They create notorious expense and
are maintained in these employments on account of being servants,
relatives, and friends of those in authority.
143. There are many sinecures and gratuities given by those in
authority, which are enjoyed by officials, clerks, officials of the
accounts, and royal officials--all without his Majesty's orders and
contrary to his intention.
144. Many soldiers enlisted are excused from service for private
reasons.
145. There are many more captains and their officers in the camp than
is necessary. These cause a useless expense and waste, and this is
a matter requiring reform.
146. Many draw salaries as commanders and captains of galleys, when
there are no galleys; and some as knights of the city, who do not
serve in its defense, and of whom there is no necessity.
147. The governors of the forts of Nuestra Señora de Guia and Santiago
draw larger salaries than his Majesty ordered.
148. The consignments made by the king to his treasury are confused
with other payments.
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