TI. COBB COTNPANY

L. A. Building Tops Gombined Ghicogo-Philodelphic Totols

In the first nine months of 1955, the $330,265,244 of building permits issued in Los Angeles topped the combined totals of Chicago and Philadelphia by $18,770,818 and went $220,418,280 ahead of Detroit, according to a Dun & Bradstreet compilation of the 25 largest cities. L. A. was second only to New York City at $572,489,042, tfnless there is drastic change in the overall economic situation in the year 195,6, the immediate future seems to hold bright promise for the Philippine Mahogany industry.

Lumber Producers' Association which has its headquarters in Manila. This counterpart organization in the Philippines is composed of manufacturers of lumber and exporters of logs. The interchange of ideas between the two groups, one representing the producers of the materials, the other the importer and salesman of the material, has proved most beneficial.

The industry has been built on a firm foundation and enjoys a diversified outlet for its product. True, problems rvill have to be faced from time to time on such matters as ocean freight rates, handling charges, steamer space, etc., but the overall prospects seem very good. It is hoped that the mills in the Philippines will increase their capacity, and expand their operations, so this beautiful hardwood may be more readily available.