The Manila Police District (MPD) said Monday that the use of force is their last resort in the hostage crisis at the Quirino Grandstand, reiterating the safety of victims as the top priority while working on the release of other passengers of the tourist bus.
 
As of 2 p.m., seven hostages were released after hours of negotiation.
 
The hostage-taker identified as Senior Inspector Rolando Mendoza was dismissed from the service due to extortion and harassment charges. He is among the five MPD policemen who allegedly extorted money from a hotel chef and forced to eat shabu.
 
During the negotiation, Mendoza demanded for the return of his benefits and salary since he was dismissed from the service.
 
Armed with an automatic rifle, Mendoza held 25 passengers of a tourist bus hostage near the Quirino Grandstand.
 
Police continued to negotiate the release of three Filipinos — a driver, photographer, and interpreter. The three are still locked up in the bus along with 15 tourists, all Hong Kong nationals. The hostages are passengers of the Hong Thai travel bus.

Packed meals were brought to the tourist bus for the hostage-taker and victims as demanded by the dismissed policeman.

The freed hostages were taken to the community precinct near the Rizal Park. They were given medical attention.
 
Police cordoned the area to prevent kibitzers from getting near, Chief Inspector Edwin Margarejo, MPD spokesman said.