Today in Philippine History. August 7, 1901, the City of Manila was incorporated by virtue of Act 183 of the Second Philippine Commission (known as the Taft Commission, appointed by U.S. President William McKinley) which was passed on July 31, 1901. Act No. 183 is also known as the City Charter of Manila. Brigadier-General George W. Davis, the last provost-marshall of Manila,