Filipino protesters detained at airport: spokesmen

Updated at 7.24pm: Three protesters from the Philippines ?who plan to participate in anti-World Trade Organisation activities next week ? were detained at the airport for seven hours on Thursday, spokesmen for the trio said.

They were Carol Pagaduan-Araullo, vice-chairwoman for External Affairs of the International League of People?s Struggle (ILPS); Elisa Lubi of ILPS-Philippine Section; and Norma Binas of Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU, May First Movement). The three arrived at Hong Kong International Airport on Chek Lap Kok at 10am.

But Immigration officials stopped them and took them into a room at the airport for questioning. They were released about 4.30pm.

Next week?s WTO conference in the territory is expected to attract many anti-globalisation protesters. There are concerns that some demonstrations could become violent as they have at previous WTO meetings.

A liaison officer for the three in Hong Kong, Aaron Ceradoy, told SCMP.com the three Filipinos ? one of whom is believed to be more than 50 years old ? were questioned twice. Their bags were also searched.

Ramon Bultron, managing director of the Asia-Pacific Mission for Migrants, told SCMP.com the three were asked about their upcoming activities in Hong Kong. They were questioned about whether they would join any protests and asked who sponsored their trip to Hong Kong.