Secretary for Security TK Lai says the Government has constantly asked the Philippine government to follow up on the Manila hostage tragedy.

He told lawmakers today the Government has contacted the Philippine Consulate General 21 times since 2012 to follow up on the requests of victims and their families, which include a formal apology, compensation, holding officials accountable for mishandling the incident, and measures to ensure the safety of tourists.

The Government has also repeated the requests on various occasions, such as at the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation meeting held in September last year, during which the Financial Secretary met with the President and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines and reiterated the requests.

Since the incident, the Government has provided assistance to the victims and their families, including medical treatment and psychological support.

The Security Bureau has also designated an officer to communicate with representatives of the victims' families to answer their needs. 

The Government understands the public is still dissatisfied with the Philippine government’s refusal to admit responsibility, and will continue to follow up on the incident.