The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee-hwa, said today (Friday) he was saddened to learn of the boat incident involving a number of Hong Kong residents in the Philippines. He noted that the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines was in contact with the Philippine government and had sent embassy staff to get more information and provide assistance to the victims.

Mr Tung send his deepest condolences to family members of the victims and said the SAR Government stood ready to offer them all necessary assistance.