Eight members of the Hong Kong tour group hijacked in Manila today were killed and two seriously injured, according to the latest figures from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Five more are being monitored in hospital.
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Expressing his deepest condolences to the victims’ families tonight, Chief Executive Donald Tsang said the Government has offered assistance to them.
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Chartered flights
Chartered flights have been arranged to take family members to the Philippine capital tonight and tomorrow morning.
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Eleven family representatives will take tonight’s flight. They will be accompanied by a team of Government officers including Police and Immigration officers, Social Welfare Department staff, clinical psychologists and medics. The team will be led by Under Secretary for Security Lai Tung-kwok.
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Other family members will join tomorrow’s 8am flight.
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Mr Tsang said bodies and survivors will be brought home as soon as possible.
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Travel alert
The Security Bureau has issued the black outbound travel alert for the Philippines. Hong Kong residents should avoid all travel to the country. Those already there should monitor their personal safety and exercise caution.
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The Government has also ordered all Hong Kong tour groups in the country to return home as soon as possible. Groups due to depart Hong Kong for the Philippines should cancel their journey.
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Flight seats have been reserved for Hong Kong people who are still in the country. Those having difficulties securing seats can call the Immigration Department’s hotline (852)1868.
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“Government offices will keep flags at half-mast tomorrow to mourn while principal officials will cancel unnecessary activities,” Mr Tsang said. “We have also demanded the Philippine Government give a detailed explanation and make appropriate arrangements for the victims.”