Threat of sanctions against Philippines 'overdue'

Hong Kong should have got tough with the Philippines and imposed economic sanctions more than three years ago over the fatal Manila hostage drama, a survivor and a family hit by the tragedy say.

They said the government had never taken a hard line after eight Hongkongers were shot dead and seven injured when a bus was hijacked by a sacked Philippine policeman in 2010.

Now that Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying has raised the possibility of sanctions if no substantial progress is made in talks on the issue, they hope Manila will be pushed into accepting their demands, which include an apology and compensation.

"The announcement was late, but it is still a positive signal," Tse Chi-kin, the older brother of slain tour guide Masa Tse Ting-chunn, said yesterday after Leung's statement. "It is the first time the Hong Kong government has taken such a tough stance with the Philippines in three years."

The Legislative Council is to debate and vote on a motion today proposing economic sanctions against the Philippines.

Democrat lawmaker James To Kun-sun said the government could, as a warning, stop official visits and purchases of Philippine products. But to exert real pressure, To said a total embargo of goods was needed.

Tse called on Hongkongers to present a united front in exerting pressure on the country. "The Philippine government has been ignoring Hong Kong and disrespectful to Hongkongers. We should resort to tougher measures to push the Philippine government to take responsibility."