Manila and victims of bus hostage tragedy inch closer to deal
All parties say they have 'narrowed their differences' in tense meeting despite emotive comment and leaks from Manila negotiator
Manila and the victims of the 2010 bus hostage killings have inched closer to a possible compensation deal, said a joint statement issued by the government, the victims' representative and the Manila negotiator yesterday after their second meeting.
The joint statement came after Manila City Council member Bernardito Ang - who on Wednesday said the compensation amount demanded by the victims was too great - provocatively questioned whether a Hongkonger's life is worth more than that of a Filipino soldier.
"Today's discussions were … helpful to narrow the differences," the statement said, adding all parties had agreed to further exchanges over the four demands raised by the victims and family members as a package.
"This time, the gap [between the two parties] has been narrowed … and I am satisfied with the progress," said Democratic Party lawmaker James To Kun-sun after his meeting with Ang.
"[This] not only refers to the apology and compensation, but also the other demands raised by the victims, which include punishment of responsible officials and improved safety for tourists."
To said both parties had made concessions but a deal was yet to be struck, as he and Ang still needed to consult the victims and Manila, respectively.
But he refused to comment on whether victims had lowered their compensation demand.