HONG KONG - The Hong Kong government on Monday showed support to Filipino migrant workers amid fears that the Manila hostage crisis, which killed eight of its citizens, might provoke violent revenge on the island.

Filipino workers' unions in Hong Kong have already voiced concerns that anti-Philippine sentiment could affect their members.

The worries by the Filipinos peaked after false text messages claimed a maid had been shot dead, another had suffered an acid attack and that there had been mass firings, the South China Morning Post reported.

The messages said the attacks were revenge for the bus hijack that happened over a week ago, the newspaper said.

But Ambrose Lee, Hong Kong's Security chief, dismissed the rumors, saying his people had expressed their anger peacefully.

"Hong Kong people have shown restraint after the tragedy. We've expressed our feelings peacefully and rationally. We've shown our love and support to the victims and their families through rally, march, Internet and prayers. As a member of Hong Kong community, I feel really proud," he said.

So far only two maids have been sacked by their employers angry at the Philippine police and government over their handling of the bus siege, according to unions.

Edwina Antonio, executive director of Bethune House Antonio, said although there have been a small number of racist incidents, Filipinos are generally well received in Hong Kong.

"Generally, I think the local community is still supportive of the Filipinos. I mean, there are a small number of incidents, these are not very rampant," said Antonio.

Edna Mae Collado, a former domestic helper, who came to Hong Kong a year ago, said she understood the Chinese's anger.

"We cannot blame the Chinese people, because of what happened. And because of their anger, maybe they can speak some not good words to us, just like that," she said.

Cyd Ho, a member of Hong Kong's Legislative Council, also defended the Filipino community, saying they too are victims of an incapable government.

"Domestic helpers who left their home and children and came all the way over to Hong Kong to help us with our domestic work are also victims of a corrupted and incapable government. So, most people in Hong Kong would not be hostile towards the Philippine friends in Hong Kong," said Ho.

Hong Kong press and politicians have strongly condemned the Philippine police and officials, saying their mishandling of the crisis led to the deaths of the hostages held on a tour bus by a sacked policeman.

Tens of thousands marched in Hong Kong last Sunday (August 29) to denounce the Philippines' bungled hostage rescue.

About 130,000 Filipinos in the island city work as domestic helpers, known locally as "amah". They earn a minimum wage of HK$3,580 ($469 U.S. dollars) a month, which their families rely on.