Erap's apology ends HK-Phl tension over hostage crisis

MANILA, Philippines — The Hong Kong government on Wednesday announced the resolution of the 2010 Manila hostage crisis following the apology of former President and now Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada.

In a post on its site, the Hong Kong said that the demands made by the victims and their families have been met by the Philippine government.

"The Hong Kong and Philippine governments have agreed to resolve the 2010 Manila hostage tragedy," it said.

"The four demands made by the victims and their families for an apology, compensation, sanctions against responsible officials and individuals, and tourist safety measures, will be settled," the statement added.

The sanctions were dropped as part of the negotiations.

Manila has expressed its "most sorrowful regret and profound sympathy" over the incident, which led to diplomatic sanctions on Philippine officials whose privilege of 14-day, visa-free access to Hong Kong was scrapped last February.

Philippine National Police chief Director General Alan Purisima has also sent a written letter of regret to the victims and their families.

Hong Kong also welcomed the Philippines' assurance that it will hold responsible those behind the botched police rescue operation that led to the death of eight Hong Kong tourists in Rizal Park.

On Tuesday, Estrada flew to Hong Kong in a bid to repair broken ties with Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

He said he was scheduled to meet with Hong Kong Chief Executive CY Leung to express his apologies in behalf of the Philippine government.

Estrada also offered "additional tokens of solidarity" as a form of compensation to the victims.