Singson wants Phl apology to Hongkong over hostage issue

“We would like to convey our national voice in extending a formal apology to our seven million-strong, peace-loving Asian brothers and sisters in Hong Kong,” said Ilocos Rep. Ronald V. Singson, calling on his fellow solons to support his bill to settle the conflict between the countries due to the 2010 Manila hostage crisis.

Hong Kong’s cancellation of visa-free entry privilege of the country’s officials could have been avoided had the government issued an apology, he said.

The Hong Kong leaders just wanted the Philippine government to apologize, said Singson. In his privilege speech, he asked the members of the House of Representatives to retain the good rapport between the Philippines and Hong Kong. -- Mar T. Supnad