Hong Kong sanctions for Filipino officials
Print Edition
Hong Kong says it is imposing sanctions on the Philippines because of its “unacceptable” failure to apologize for a deadly hostage crisis more than three years ago.
The current visa-free arrangement for Philippine diplomats and officials will be suspended from February 5, Hong Kong Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying told reporters yesterday.
Leung said 700 to 800 diplomats or officials visited from the Philippines every year on the visa-free arrangement.
He described the move as the “first phase of sanctions” and said the government may take more action if it thinks it could be “effective” in securing an apology over the 2010 incident in which eight Hong Kongers were killed and seven wounded.
They were shot after negotiations broke down between Philippine authorities and a former Philippine police officer who hijacked a Manila tour bus in protest at his sacking.
“The Philippine side is still unable to meet the demand of the victims and the families for a formal apology despite many rounds of discussions,” Leung said. “The response is unacceptable.”
Hong Kong lawmaker James To, who represents victims’ families, said it was the first time the city had imposed sanctions on a foreign country.
“It sends a very clear message that the government is very determined to fight for justice for Hong Kong people,” To told reporters.
Philippine President Benigno Aquino has refused to apologize on behalf of his country, insisting the deaths were mainly caused by the actions of the hostage-taker.
The apparent incompetence of the Philippine police during the hostage crisis outraged Hong Kong residents. The Chinese special region has maintained a travel warning to the Philippines ever since.
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