There is gold both in mines or native deposits, and in places in the
rivers in almost all parts of the land; although, notwithstanding that,
not much is seen among the Indians (although the mines are rich)
because they are a lazy race, because the slaves are very arrogant, and
because of the plundering and warfare among themselves, so that they do
not dare to leave their houses unless they are in bands and armed.
However, the chief mines that the Indians work and of which we have
notice, are those of Pangasinan, Ylocos, those of Paracali, Vicor,
Camarines, and Bongdo. They are all located in the island of Luzon, and
in another island outside it, called Catandoanes. Item: In the island
of Ybabao, in that of Samal, in that of Masbat, in the island that the
Spaniards call Vermeja about two leguas from Çurigao, where, according
to the report of the Indians, was the greatest wealth of all. However,
that island is now deserted because of a certain superstition until the
death of the children of the one who was its ruler. Also in many parts
of the island of Mindanao, especially in the river of Çurigao, in that
of Parasao, in that of Butuan, and in that of Vaguindanao. The gold in
the last named island is fine and in quantity.
Pearls are also found near Tandaya in the island of Ybabao, in the
island of Vatayan, in that of the Cagayanes, in that of Bohol, in that
of Mindanao between Cavite and the bay of Baguindanao, and in the
island of Xolo, where there is reported to be a very great quantity.
There are spices and drugs, especially cinnamon, in the island of
Mindanao, where it is found in quantities in Cavite, in Cagayan, in
Compor, and in the bay near Butuan. There is also pepper, both long and
round, although not in quantity, but if it were planted, as much as one
would desire could be raised. There are quantities of it in an island
called Cauchin [55] located near China where there are also many
elephants. There are also elephants in the island of Xoloc. [56] There
are ginger, cubebs, tamarinds, and other drugs. This is without
touching on the mainland of China, Sian, and Patani, or in Java or the
Malucos, where all manner of spices, drugs, and perfumes are found. In
some of those places precious stones are found, according to the report
of both the Portuguese and the Borneans who trade with them.