SAN FRANCISCO International Airport - Chinese-American Mao Van was on his way to Manila for a one-week vacation. His wife and children, who are already there, reminded him to be careful.

“I’m not riding any tourist buses while I’m there,” said Van.

A dismissed Filipino policeman took siege of a tourist bus carrying 22 tourists from Hong Kong that was parked at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila. After a 12-hour standoff with the police, 8 Hong Kong tourists lost their lives.

The Chinese government condemned this act, demanding answers from the Philippine government.

Hundreds of protesters held a demonstration in front of the Philippine Consulate in Hong Kong, criticizing the Philippine Police for botched negotiations with the gunman, Rolando Mendoza.

Flags in Hong Kong were also lowered at half-mast to mourn and honor the deaths of the 8 tourists.

Phil Bourekas said he’s aware of the Chinese government warning people not to travel to the Philippines.

Bourekas dropped off his wife, Remy at the airport. While in the Philippines, Remy said she plans to visit tourist destinations. She said, “I’m not scared.”

While he’s concerned for his wife’s safety, Bourekas said he still thinks the Philippines is a safe place.

“No additional concerns based on that. Workplace violence happens all over the world, including the US and that’s what this looks like,” said Bourekas.

The Sinson family is originally from Manila. They said there’s no safer place than home.

“Manila is safe. Anytime, I would not hesitate to go home,” said Anne Sinson.

Frequent travelers Pat Roche and his family have never been to the Philippines. But they were alarmed when they heard about tourists getting shot there.

“It’s a sad day for Manila, for the Philippines, for the victims. But it will not stop me from traveling to Manila in the future,” said Roche.

It remains to be seen whether the bloody hostage crisis in Manila would impact the tourism industry in the Philippines. Tourism officials say about 140,000 Hong Kong tourists visit the Philippines every year.

For now, President Benigno Aquino III has presented the Philippines’ preliminary investigation into the hostage crisis to the Chinese ambassador.

Vice-President Jejomar Binay and Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo plan to fly to Beijing and Hong Kong and meet with Chinese officials once the final report is done. Balitang America