Why did President McKinley refuse to give independence to the Filipino people?

President McKinley refused to grant independence to the Filipino people after the Spanish-American War due to concerns about their ability to self-govern and the desire to civilize and uplift them. He believed that the Philippines needed American guidance and support to develop politically, socially, and economically. Additionally, strategic interests in the region, including military and trade considerations, influenced his decision to retain control over the islands. This led to significant conflict, including the Philippine-American War, as many Filipinos sought independence.