China reacts to Erap's Hong Kong trip

MANILA, Philippines — China gave a neutral response when asked about Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada's trip to Hong Kong to apologize to families of victims of the hostage crisis in 2010.

In a press conference on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Qin Gang said that China has long demanded for an apology and compensation to families and survivors of the botched police rescue operation at Rizal Park.

"Since this hostage incident took place several years ago, the Chinese government has been urging the Philippine side to earnestly respond to the legitimate and lawful demands of the government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the relatives of the victims," Qin said.

Qin added that Beijing has wanted Manila to "properly handle relevant issues as soon as possible."

Eight Hong Kong tourists died in the incident. Disgruntled Philippine National Police officer Rolando Mendoza who hijacked the tourist bus was killed by snipers.

On Tuesday, Estrada flew to Hong Kong purportedly to meet with Hong Kong Chief Executive CY Leung.

"I am apologizing because it happened in Manila. In behalf of the people of Manila, the city council and myself extend our apology for the unfortunate incident more than three years ago," the former president said.

President Benigno Aquino III, however, remained adamant in refusing to apologize to the Chinese state as it brings within it legal liabilities.

Also read: Reasons why the Philippines won't apologize to Hong Kong

Hong Kong earlier this year terminated Philippine officials' 14-day visa-free access. Ordinary Filipinos, however, are spared from the diplomatic sanctions.