Philippine President Benigno Aquino took full responsibility Friday for the bungled rescue that left eight Hong Kong tourists dead, saying he had direct supervision of the Philippine National Police during the crisis.

The Liberal Party Friday called on the government to use money from its fat general reserves to improve the lives of the people of Hong Kong. Meeting with Chief Executive Donald Tsang, party chairperson Miriam Lau made several proposals on quality of life issues, including measures to address housing problems for middle and low income people; tackle the wage gap, help the elderly and support small and medium enterprises.

A study has found that over 60 percent of pathological gamblers in Hong Kong have at least one type of mental disorder, such as anxiety and depression. The researchers say the results of the study demonstrate that an inter-disciplinary approach needs to become part of the city's policy for dealing with problem gamblers.

Octopus wants claim struck out

Investigators probing the aftermath of the August 23 Manila hostage crises have found evidence that 20 rounds were fired into the Hong Thai Tours bus by police.

The coroner is awaiting the report of a team of Hong Kong police investigators into the August 23 massacre of eight Hong Kong tourists in Manila, Secretary for Security Ambrose Lee told a special meeting of the Legislative Council (LegCo) Thursday.