Tens of thousands of Hong Kong residents joined in a massive rally Sunday afternoon to mourn for the eight victims of last Monday's hostage crisis. They're demanding Philippine authorities apologize for the tragedy and conduct a thorough investagation soon.

Initiated by several political organizations, Hong Kong residents began pouring into the city's landmark Victoria Park around 1:00pm local time despite the swelteringly heat.

A HK local resident said, "What we can do is so limited, but I really hope the families of the victims can get back on their feet again."

Ken Chow, demonstrator, said, "We are so sad about this incident in the Philippines. The Philippine government can really improve their training and equipment of their policemen. But also to let both our people, I mean the Philippines, I mean Chinese and Honk Kong citizens can finally settle down."

Hong Kong police estimate 26-thousand people gathered at Victoria Park. More people joined in the procession during the march.

Hong Kong chief executive Donald Tsang also took part in the ceremony. He was joined by 20 members of Hong Kong's legislative council. Lawmakers are also asking the SAR government to seek direct involvement in the investigation into the tragedy.

At around 3:00pm, demonstrators, including the city's lawmakers, began to march towards Standard Chartered Park.

They held up banners that read as "Deepest Condolences to the Families of the Victims" and "Demand thorough Probe into the Truth of the Incident".

The march was staged in peace and order.

(CNTV.cn August 29, 2010)