Hong Kong Tourists Trapped In Bus With Unhinged Man Who Tries To Kill Them One By One

[@nbgwwy]

I am from HK and remember watching this whole hostage unfolded live. Hongkongers were livid after this incident, not only towards the parties involved, but also towards the local citizens who treated the bus like it was a tourist spot, taking pics and smiling happily in front of it. It's revolting to see people derive joy from other people's suffering. Needless to say, there was a sort of unspoken tension between HKers and Filipinos working in HK at that time. Thank you for bringing our attention to cases like this, Stephanie.

[@arvinjay336]

@bintouhk as a Filipino I just wanted thank a rebuttal done by your country for creating the meme "Smiling dog" to the president at that time(benigno aquino III) the st*pidest president ever elected, who smiled at the victims of this tragedy.

[@nbgwwy]

@@arvinjay336 Hello Arvinjay, that's horrible to know. This case gets more messed up the more you know about it. 😔

[@trishcake]

@@arvinjay336 i don't think the president of that time is the stupidest president ever elected, when the philippines' current president is a son of a dictator and the previous president before him is a tyrant.

[@staehydraeted4899]

I apologize on behalf of my people. I saw a lot of those pictures of people smiling with the bus behind them. It was very sickening.

[@Hirayaboo]

As a Filipino my heart breaks for your people. Please know that more people are with you in this grief. 💔 I am so sorry.

[@edmit2001]

Doesn't matter he was a victim of the system or not. What he did to bring the innocent go down with him made him a monster.

[@monmayor1467]

I heard that this is common with retiring police officers, they will pull out receipts of your previous mistakes /wrongdoings, exaggerate it so you get dismissed without pension or benefits. really really fucked up He could've get back on people that did that to him not on innocent souls so that's on him

[@Audreyjellybelly]

​​@@monmayor1467h? Really? Could he? He did the worst thing possible; hijacking a bus with international tourists inside and asked the driver to move the bus to that significant location.. That case was being televised. So many people see just how corrupt their governers. And apparently, still was not enough to bring those people down from their high-horse. So many people in Manila, even after so many cases, arent able to get to them. So, what else could he do to get back on them then? I wont say what he did was right tho. But i could emphatised why he did what he did..le sigh

[@PennXD]

He killed KIDS and innocent people he is disgusting i don't care if he was a victim of the system he should have hurt the people who hurted him not innocent people I would never even think of killing or shooting innocent people for something that isn't even there fault or EVER especially the kids.. I feel so sorry for the victims I hope those people are doing ok now

[@bluemint4359]

Exactly!

[@Duhman2]

Fr he killed innocent people and I'm disgusted by y'all siding with him. Just imagine you were in the scary situation.

[@imivan05]

The level of stupidity in the authorities is bizarre to say the least. Such a pity for the citizens to be under this govern

[@peach2210]

Bizarre is the perfect word

[@joaquinchua3348]

Yep the president at this time was literally one of the most incompetent person I have ever seen, the only reason i think he even got elected was because of his mother's legacy

[@toxihex876]

I love how she's like "the worried faces of the passengers would appear behind the curtains every once in a while, as if begging to be let out" and she shows a video of an annoyed, pissed woman who's most likely thinking "the hell is up with those goddamn idiot cops, I'd be out by now if they found a single braincell between themselves"

[@adelankhen]

We call that party list yellowtard for a reason.

[@arvinjay336]

@imivan05 even more stupid when the president at that time, benigno aquino III SMILED at the victims of this tragedy which insulted Hong Kong.

[@c.zenapai5430]

Witnessing this on tv as a child was scary. But now, as an adult and finally understood what went down that day, it is extremely blood boiling. The incompentence is unspeakable.

[@danieljoybaguio7975]

I remember this being discussed fairly frequently in the news when I was in the elementary school. I didn't realized just how hecked up the situation was until fairly recently (around a year ago or so) when I was curious about it and looked for YT docus regarding the incident Man... Just shows how fucked up our system was (and still is...)

[@SamiLo2]

I feel like they could’ve been like “listen man, we can’t give you your job back due to what you are doing right now, but we can reinstate your benefits, etc. and allow you to retire so at least your family is taken care of.”

[@rickrollrizal]

This was the then president's attack on credibility. He wanted to act tough

[@pilgrimonajourney917]

thay could have bagrained indeed, just to appease the man. But boy, did they mess up big time. Add to it the media being famewhore and wanting to be the first to deliver exclusive news, airing the man's sibling carried out like that triggered him all the more, eh.

[@Keyonne88]

Yeah this would have been my approach; Bro, you can't be a cop cuz you're literally holding people hostage, but I realize the only reason you want your job is so you get your pension, so we'll just give that back?

[@squizzyicetea]

"but then everyone will do it" -politician excuses everywhere 😢

[@thecaratcode6429]

Incompetent police, incompetent politicians, insensitive journalists, and useless health facilities. This incident was really appalling and embarrassing for us Filipinos.

[@lilycha9398]

What's more embarrassing is that nothing has changed.

[@dings7301]

Deadass

[@markanthonypanao1120]

@@lilycha9398 It's even worse

[@frutcakes6370]

Don’t be embarrassed. It’s not anyone else’s fault but those that let it happen and those that could care less about their actions.

[@Shiikiz]

Fr

[@RajmyzzleStyle]

It is infuriating that the authorities who handled this case are irresponsible and dumb. So annoying. I was only 10 yrs. Old when this happened and I watched this in the news live. I got little to no understanding about this case before, but my family and I felt anxious and worried about the tourists inside the bus when this happened. It took the police a very very long time before the hostage ended.

[@arvinjay336]

@RajmyzzleStyle it comes down to the commander and chief too who was a WEAK president at that time benigno aquino III, who hilariously SMILED at the victims of the tragedy which proved to be an insult that Hong Kong created a meme labelling him as a 'smiling dog'.

[@mrynnrms]

Same here. I honestly remember my mom crying while watching the news. She kept thinking about the kids that were inside the bus and held my hand the whole time our whole family offered a prayer for the victims. My dad and brothers were pissed with how the police handled the situation when they watched everything from start to finish and can clearly judge that Mendoza was genuinely hopeful at first. Everything was total chaos. As a Filipino that remembers this incident, I offer my deepest condolences to the families of the victims :(

[@rhemillieangelligon913]

He even refused to say sorry to the HK government, so dumb. 😞

[@karrencarao4062]

The most incompetent president of the philippines next to his mother as well

[@yupitsme7574]

I remember I was in freshman of high school back when this happened and I remember the next morning at school everyone was talking about it and during flag ceremony it was quieter than usual almost everyone who knows what happened has a heavy feeling :/

[@Hirayaboo]

As a Filipino, I can say that most of the police and almost everyone in power here are corrupt. This incident is so disgusting and disappointing. I am so sorry for the victims. Believe us when we say that the people seeing this now or knew abt this is with you at being upset with everyone involved in the failure of handling this. 💔

[@LisaKim-l2j]

we need to get you out of there babe

[@cactus101mm]

@@LisaKim-l2j ???

[@faidsrmt1307]

Agreed.

[@sinnamonroll2780]

Bro as a Filipino American this is the wildest thing to see

[@Andronicus87]

THis is just how humans are. We cannot seem to realize that behaving in that manner actually hurts us personally and hurts us as a species more than we ever gain from it. It is because mammals are wired for self survival at all costs. Not species survival. This is why communism doesn't work with us and we have to come up with systems like capitalism to have a half working society due to our insatiable greed. Capitalism uses our greed to get things done. Give us incentive to be productive. Only way to fix our greed problem is genetic engineering. But if we get rid of our selfishness for selflessness then we wouldn't take care of ourselves and always try to take care of others. We need a balance between the two.

[@pauocampo0525]

‘ As a Filipino who witnessed this all live, I just have to say the incompetence of everyone involved, from the police to the politicians and even the media, is truly revolting. A lot could have been done to save people’s lives.

[@karlr0ckerz]

That was the most incompetent president we ever had.

[@viken2821]

I agree, aside from that here in this country people will tend to give too much pity to the "unfortunate" and justify all wrongdoings like they're the only victims.

[@Truthorfib]

People vote on popularity. Never competence.

[@richella2029]

​@@karlr0ckerznot saying he isn't bad, but he's way better than the cowards and idiots that succeeded him. It's a crazy circus called ph politics

[@kathyneko]

​@@karlr0ckerz Wait until Rotten Mango channel covers the drug war, it will highlight the incompetence and evilness of Rodrigo Duterte.

[@keshiahguzman8950]

As a Filipino, I’m ashamed how this was handled. I’m so sorry for the lives suffered and lost. May you rest in peace.

[@amberbigbaddie]

She's the BEST storyteller. I have listened to all her stuff on this channel. She's made me ball my eyes out with the way she told the story. I have listened to a few other channels and enough stories. She's got a way of explaining everything without getting off point to much. She's got an amazing way of explaining things in detail and telling the story without getting off point. She's so talented. She keeps my attention throughout the entire story. She also chooses some extremely interesting stories. Stephanie is so extremely talented and I think she's the best of the best storyteller.

[@amberbigbaddie]

Congratulations on your wedding 💒 Mamacita!🎉❤ Love to you. You are a master at your craft. I admire your amazing ability to Tell stories and keep me interested all throughout your stories.

[@miinfl7143]

Yea, this is the best true crime channel I've watched so far.

[@szybake9629]

She is great!!! If you like her, then I think you would love Emma Kenny. Rotten Mango, Stephanie Harlow, and Emma are my favorites!

[@Circuit289]

She's a great story teller and researcher. Its like that one friend that talks alot and you can't help to listen to. 😂😂😂 Please make more vids.

[@theberserkturtle]

She's good but I'm fairly certain she's embellishing in all her videos

[@Allyourbase1990]

My fiancé is from the Philippines, from what she says it sounds like a large portion of Filipino police are very unqualified, untrained, and easily bribed

[@AngryKittens]

Oh it's worse. A large number of them sideline as criminals. Kidnapping, extortion, assassins, private armies, drugs, road rage, bribery, every significant crime you can think of, they've done. And they're protected by the nepotistic "padrino" system. Just these past two months alone, they've been involved in at least 4 high-profile cases. In contrast, almost all of the other criminals do minor things. Theft, crimes of passion, domestic problems, etc.

[@dankpepe2110]

Sounds about right.

[@Liliarthan]

I’m guessing nothing’s changed?

[@AngryKittens]

@@Liliarthan Nope.

[@darklord6357]

It's embarrassing but it's true, sadly.

[@yunchacco]

I was young when I saw this happen on live tv, and hearing about all the details now, IT'S SO FRUSTRATING, ALMOST EMBARRASING how uniformed officials, THE POLICE, handled this. It's so difficult to trust them now. HAVING DINNER? HOW DID THEY NOT CHOKE WHILE EATING WHEN PEOPLE WERE DYING 😡

[@lemonlime1713]

Almost embarrassing? It's ABSOLUTELY, through the core embarrassing.

[@Loralanthalas]

They do it all the time. Their worklist is 911 calls. They don't really care so much. It's just human. - I'm from a family of law enforcement. You people think they're wonderful- in reality their morals are for sale and even worse as the laws change every year. What they will arrest you and beat you for one year: literally the next year its legal and its fine. POLICE ARE AWFUL PEOPLE.

[@nootnoot94]

It reminds me of the school sh**ting where the cops just stood around in the school with an active shooter while being on their phones

[@Michelle-rdz17]

@@nootnoot94 Uvalde?

[@l2727]

it's absolutely embarrassing. the way authority handled this is a shame to the philippines.

[@rachaelsanxious5724]

I would be RUNNING with that letter, what are we doing sitting in the traffic? Grab a bike, scooter, literally anything

[@Myllovve]

The most f*cked up part is they were only in traffic because they went to go get dinner to talk, like wtf 😢

[@dryRoses]

Thank you for covering this case with such respect and sensitivity. One of the daughters in the Leung family was my dear classmate.. She truly had a beautiful soul and smile always. Our class misses her dearly.

[@superjuniorlover7899]

this case is really sad, my heart goes out to all the victims and their families as well as everyone who survived this incident

[@ston3d222]

“thats mommy” OH MY GOD IM SOBBING. this case was so grossly mishandled and i feel nothing but hate in my heart for the government that failed those beautiful souls.

[@LaughingLlamaLodge]

KZbin just asked me to rate your comment lol guess what I rated it

[@jenellenelson4447]

As a parent, when i listen to stuff like this NOW, i understand why the parents on this bus just went with it... "If i do as I'm told, they won't need to hurt my child..." Absolutely heartbreaking for everyone on board and all loved ones.. my greatest sympathy to all of them😔

[@rluciano287]

As a parent myself I wouldn't know what the hell to do. I can't imagine the stress and anxiety they must have felt while also trying to stay calm for their children. An absolute nightmare.

[@christineholley3168]

Watching these videos now absolutely hits different when you have your own human to protect, I couldn't watch true crime for 3 months after my son was born 😭

[@smithamy1982]

​@@christineholley3168the only reason I watch true crime is because I'm a parent and need to be aware of the insanity in the world around us

[@god.of.justice69]

I vividly recall watching the 2010 Manila hostage crisis unfold on live TV when I was just 9 years old. It was a harrowing experience that left us, along with our family and even our neighbors, anxious and worried about the fate of the Hong Kong tourists held hostage. Our home street that time went silent due to the news. The inept response by the authorities, political interference, insensitive journalism, and the failure of the healthcare system were deeply disheartening. My sympathies go out to the victims, and I hope that such a tragic event never happens again. It’s sad to state that even up until now, little to no improvements were made with the mentioned incompetencies that the Philippine government had.

[@hi_jjesse]

After 13 years, I still get goosebumps when I remember watching all this live on TV. I remember having this mixed emotions but mostly disappointment and anger. Also sympathy for the victims. They were just tourists! They were supposed to be having fun on their trip and this monster took everything away from them for selfish reasons!!! I still get upset even after more than a decade has passed..

[@dendena.9495]

Thank you for covering this, Stephanie. I remember watching this in the news when I was in 6th grade. It was stressful and everyone was so mad at the police officers. It was infuriating watching those police run back from the bus with their tails between their legs. So freaking embarrassing. My heart goes out to the victims, they didn't deserve this.

[@hallooos7585]

That’s why i hate my country, almost everything is embarrassing and so pitiful like the people are easily swayed by corrupt people like I can’t, and it’s even more embarrassing to make a former hated president son become the president of the country again it’s just so embarrassing snd irresponsible.

[@yyy-zn6xu]

The icing on the cake on this incident was noynoy smiling in the crime scene... Further made Hong Kong mad to our country and started the hostility of china towards our country... Because after this incident, Philippine coast guard shot and killed taiwanese fishermen.. without any good speech coming from the president... This is the reason why china militarized the south china sea... This started it all in this hostage taking incident... And then 2yrs later in 2012 you can search the Scarborough stand off between china and Philippines and the mediator was the US which led to losing our rights of fishing in Scarborough because US was in favor in china at that time with obama... As a college student at that time of hostage taking, it opened up my interest in geopolitics and why im very cautious to what every leaders say in their countries specially ours... A lot of pro-noynoy or pro-liberals didnt know this sequence of events that led to china became too hostile on us... For china, both Hong Kong and taiwan are theirs so if someone messed their people , you know what will happen..

[@arvinjay336]

@@yyy-zn6xu because ABNOY's admin the ones he assigned on that Scarborough stand off screwed it up too yong parang ginawa lang nilang "ah, basta" so that's why China and Vietnam as well have claims on it.

[@acarreon.]

​@@yyy-zn6xuyep. Noy is messed up 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@diannelopez2021]

Same. I was still a child when I saw this news. That was terrifying...

[@kixkicks139]

I feel so badly for Mrs Yik. That trauma is so hard to cope with when you see what these evil ppl did to you. It’s so unfair. All of these tragedies are beyond unfair.

[@Aviation_3]

Who is mrs yik

[@kixkicks139]

@@Aviation_3 that’s the lady who was mentioned to have gotten shot in the jaw. She keeps her face covered because of the wound

[@Syn741]

idk if evil is the word. it's more like desperate. because it seems like he's pushed to the point of no return. and it's majority the fault of the police as they make him feel very cornered.

[@Aviation_3]

@@kixkicks139 oh ty

[@TopGearLioness]

I was in the Philippines when this happened and my whole family were tuning in. I can understand every words the media was recording and what was happening. Mendoza first killed the tour guide because they were beating his brother on LIVE TV. His brother was crying on live TV and the police beat him up to tell his brother on live TV to stop this madness. The way the police openly talks in front of the cameras was insane. Me and my family were infuriated and no, they did not intend to really give his old job back, they were mocking him on TV too, saying that this will pass and he will tire out, and he got pissed so he open fired again. Another is, Mendoza saw the sniper, because the red dot light, not sure what it's called, was literally so visible even on live TV and Medoza was writing on paper and sticking them on the window to tell everyone that he knows what's happening. Mendoza was the one who asked the driver if there was a cable TV in the bus. When the driver got out, he wasn't yelling, when he got out and in the crowd swarming with media, he was so confident that every passengers were dead and he was confirming it. This was honestly mind boggling to me while it was happening. It was pathetic how the SWAT team didn't know it was fiber glass and there was a special tool so you can use to break it, instead, they were not ready and did not strategize well enough so Mendoza was able to open fire to them. By using more tear gas, he was pushed towards the front which he knew what was waiting for him. Duterte apologized publicly on this tragedy back in 2018 and Hong Kong accepted it and lifted the sanctions that were placed. It was very confusing how it was handled. They know Mendoza's skillset and background, and yet, here we are. Noy-Noy Aquino was the president during this tragedy and he sent his officials to apologize for him publicly in Hong Kong instead of him doing it himself. Thank you for covering this Steph! My heart goes out to the victims

[@kirstenmartin7512]

Up!

[@LynnToledo]

SAF44, the Manila Hostage Crisis, and Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) Joke Response will forever haunt that failure of a president even in death. We should never forget. Duterte was absolutely too forgiving of him to declare a ten-day period of national mourning when he died. Absolutely not one lowly, ordinary Filipino cared.

[@jiponggo]

It wasn't even a SWAT team it's just a team of police who clearly doesn't even know how to break the windows properly, it was introduced by the former mayor Lim for a publicity stunt at the moment and it clearly didn't go well. The SWAT is more trained in these situations than the police it was such a Dumb Idea the Mayor and the President really deserved a big L because of this

[@_Wai_Wai_]

​@@LynnToledonever trust governments to do what they are supposed to do?

[@assiend]

Yeah. Bless Mendoza. He did everything he could. Government officials and police are 🤢🤢🤢

[@MiTexcel]

The mishandling of this case by the authorities and journalists reminds me way too much of the Gladbeck hostage crisis... the fact that this happened more than once around the world is terrifying.

[@ritariza2835]

He was definitely guilty of what Christian accused him of. A normal innocent man who was “falsely fired” doesn’t suddenly take hostages and put people through such horror. I bet he had done a lot more shady things in his career prior to this

[@roninsteel]

That's a good point

[@nuriacb7880]

That is called desperation. People under so much stress and due to the injustices, can commit the most horrendous crimes@@roninsteel

[@sarahbell3038]

He obviously didn't care for human life.

[@lemonmochi8669]

have u heard of ad hominem. this kind of assumption and judgement contributes to more problems imo

[@Technic010]

Being a police man was his life. Him apologizing and saying he didn’t want to do this, he just wanted to police to listen to him, is proof enough that this was the last thing you thought he could do to get his life back.

[@TyanahDove]

It’s absolutely disgusting knowing that lives could have been saved from this incident and the ferry incident but because of ego, pride, having dinner and “traffic”, innocent ppl lost their lives! What’s the point in being in charge if your not going to step up when it actually matters?! If you work TOGETHER with other countries/ whoever is offering to help defuse situations like this, you will gain your ppl’s trust, they will feel like you care and that they are protected! What citizen in their right mind is going to criticize the leaders in their country because they took outside help from another country to help save lives??? Isn’t that one reason why we have all these treaties and agreements between countries so we can lean on each other when needed or does that only apply to when money is being made? I’m also glad that higher ups true colors are showing and that they are getting fired!!!

[@queencatherineofaragon938]

“What’s the point in being in charge of your not going to step up?” Money, power, ego. You’d be so surprised how people desperate for prestige are the same ones so unwilling to actually work for it.

[@lizs0s]

Can we just appreciate steph for doing all those videos all though her wedding is close ❤

[@TessaCanDraw]

my sister's wedding was a few days ago and at the last sec i was a photo person i was shook that chose me out of all the people their. here's a note weddings with a lot of kids is something else than what a movie would make it out to be.

[@reapitswe]

@@L19966 bro 😂like damn we can all see it

[@1995radwa]

​@afroswedish3778 what's the problem with saying a nice thing especially when it's so well deserved. She puts so much effort & research into it, nothing like this is broadcasted for free & we appreciate that. The internet is full of hate comments & negativity, you leave all that but complain about the few positive ones 😂 nothing wrong with encouraging each other & saying something positive

[@MsEmpress4life]

It’s her job and she has a wedding to pay for. She is not doing it because she has nothing else to do 😂😂😂

[@phython124]

Do yall stop working before a wedding?

[@anonymousdream4209]

I just knew about this incident but I knew it seemed familiar somewhere. After some thinking and researching, I realised one of the victims was actually a student of the school I attend and we had an award that was dedicated to them as a memorial. The victim (I will not say their name) was an astounding student at school and was really kind, always helping those who were in need, so the award is dedicated to those who show the same attitude as them. Up till this day, this award is still being presented, and every year we would give a moment of silence for the victim. some teachers are pained to talk about it as they actually taught the victim themselves, so we never really asked about the subject. This happened back in 2010 so I actually didn't quite know about this incident, and didn't understand about the severity as the teachers didn't want to go into a full detailed explanation of the incident, so thank you so much for covering this. (English is not my mother language, so please excuse any grammatical errors)

[@michellekrueger5122]

So you say English Is not your mother language..well your comment does not reflect it..your English writing is impeccable, Actually better then most Americans..🌹❤️😊

[@oliveoyl1802]

What a beautiful thing to do for the victim. Your school board continuing to honor the late student to this day with this award in their name and the annual moment's silence in rememberance is a very classy gesture that I am sure is very much appreciated by their family ❤

[@Adelicows]

@@michellekrueger5122 *than

[@Just_Penelope.]

The hostage holder is a heartless man. The authorities are even worse. Imagine your loved ones are dying next to you, and the people that are supposed to help are eating dinner! What the actual f***.

[@alicekeehl]

Thank you for covering this Stephanie! I'm from Hong Kong and still remember this case vividly, as my family and I sat by the dinner table watching the situation being broadcast as it happened on the television. Very grateful for you covering this case while addressing the systemic issues and different perspective! ❤

[@AEChronicler]

I remember watching this as a kid. Even children my age during that time knew how ridiculously stupid the government's actions were. Even so, I hope for healing for all families who went through such a horrific event. Thank you for another great episode Stephanie.

[@coldkola]

Lately I have been HOOKED on Rotten Mango 🥭 the perfect podcast to draw to, I love the length of them as well. They also introduce me to cases that I don’t think I would’ve heard of if I haven’t found y’all

[@zola__]

SAME, IVE WATCHED LIKE EVERY SINGLE ONE.. IVE CRIED TO MULTIPLE.

[@gemapais7082]

I agree, she’s also great at keeping my attention, I love her videos

[@lindseycassella3015]

I also like how she covers cases globally. It's really opened my eyes to how much injustice there is everywhere.

[@lowkeydeetee2779]

I'm sad that I've watched just about all the videos on the channel 😢❤

[@ashleeketner4408]

This is insane, so so sad and totally preventable. Why didn't they just tell him you obviously cannot be a cop tomorrow BUT we will give you the retirement and pension you earned. And as long as no one is harmed, regardless of any charges, your family will receive everything you expected for your retirement. This whole thing is just nuts and as Steph said just evil. The people in charge literally didn't do even 1 thing right. And just went to dinner... disgusting.

[@rluciano287]

Wow you came up with a better idea than the police! I really don't think they were even trying, there were so many options they could have tried.

[@ashleeketner4408]

@@rluciano287 dude in less than 5 minutes. And a huge group of people in charge had nothing but stall and tear gas hostages? Like what in the f

[@MrSevvie41]

My take was he wanted his job back, not the money......they could have made him desk jock maybe?

[@God-ec8ni]

from what i remember with this story this guy was one of those straight guys he probably offended someone higher up so they deliberatly axed him so he cannot pass the requirement for benefits so theres no way a corupt powerful official is going to reinstate him, their ego would not let them majority of the blame goes to the mayor and the journalist IMO the mayor took over the whole operation swat team shouldve been the ones running the thing the journalists literally showed every position the police is taking thyre so dumb theyre giving away important information to the hostage taker

[@shrutikaanand7587]

This was obviously not what he wanted. Thinking of a solution to this is not as easy as people are saying.

[@YoinHavana]

You are an incredible storyteller. I absolutely adore your posts , and your advocacy for the victims

[@miinfl7143]

3:46 I'm glad you brought that up bc whenever I read discussions on the tragedy, im struck by how little regard is given to the victims. It's as if they're inconsequential. As an ethnic Chinese who's often noticed how people like me are seen as less than human, this is unsettling.

[@bm-ww8kb]

what r u talking about? your time stamp is the intro song?

[@copacabanagurl]

I am from Metro Manila, Philippines. This story is beyond heartbreaking. My British friend who was then part of the History Channel covered this case. Completely broke my heart after knowing the details. Thank you Stephanie. (I am a silent but avid viewer of all platforms you are in). 🙏💗

[@jijixiaxvi]

I remember my Theology professor stopping classes as we all listened to this case as it was happening on his pocket radio. There was a feeling of disbelief among my classmates. First, the disbelief that something like this was happening. Second, the disbelief that the authorities were so irresponsible, ill-prepared, and dumb. Then third, the feeling of disbelief that the worst thing that could possibly happen... happened. It is still dumbfounding how something like this could happen. My heart still breaks every time I hear about this case. So many lives were lost and no one seemed to care.

[@vxacevv3276]

you seriously have such a way with words when telling these stories. Prayers to everyone involved in this story

[@silv3095]

I was just a kindergarten at that time and everywhere I switched channels that I know, just shows the same livestream. I didn't know what is going on fully with the scenario but I know that it is taking them a long time for it to be done. I am literally questioning "What are they doing?" with that kind of setup. When I turned off the tv at noon to do some things then turned it back on again, I was astounded that broadcast wasn't finished even if it's already dark. I wish peace and happiness to all of the victims in this case and hope that they are all doing well. Thankyou Steph for giving us a heads up on this case. Wish you all the best.

[@clafleur1993]

The government & the media were absolutely disgusting in this story. I’m so sorry for the victims & survivors of this 💔 🙏🏻

[@archanamadan3134]

Hey Stephanie, I wanted to suggest the Nithari case in Noida, Delhi, India and the murder of Arushi Talwar, Delhi, India to you. These are two separate cases and I would love to see your opinion on them ❤

[@nintendo8127]

Speaking of things in India, after listening to her comments on the media, I want her to also talk about 26/11. I feel it needs more attention. As this year will be the 15-year anniversary.

[@guitaria66636]

hope she does it!!

[@1p1rn1pr1dh1n]

@@nintendo8127 i also want her to cover the burari case and nirbhaya case. especially nirbhaya

[@asmrruru]

@@1p1rn1pr1dh1nshe has already covered both the cases

[@1p1rn1pr1dh1n]

@@asmrruru omg really in which channel? I haven't seen it

[@littlebabachoo]

Thank you for covering a lot of Philippine cases, Stephanie! It's embarrassing how incompetent our police and justice systems are.

[@redlady120]

The police are not the only ones incompetent. The President and press were also stupidly incompetent.

[@alexiatr]

You are not alone. Many countries in Latin America, police is just like this corrupt. From your fraternal country México, a big hug🤗

[@life_is_a_myth]

​@@alexiatrNever fraternal nor related

[@QuinnshireAce]

There were a few times I teared up during this, but hearing “that’s mommy” absolutely broke me. What a preventable tragedy in so many regards. I barely remember seeing news reports about this, but hearing it come from a compassionate source like you made this so much easier to understand and relate too. Just like any human person should, no matter who was to blame, the most important people are the survivors and those lost.

[@irinad.7802]

This hit very close to home. I’m sobbing. When I was a kid, a major hostage crisis unfolded in my city, with media circus and police mishandling the whole thing. Look up Moscow theatre hostage crisis. It traumatised me a lot.

[@DaniCamo]

I just want to appreciate your storytelling skills, Stephanie. How is it that you can read a script for a sponsored ad and it sound so genuine and conversational that it sounds like you're actually just giving us a recommendation as a friend. Absolutely superb. If you ever wanted to branch out and read audiobooks you'd immediately be my favorite narrator :P I watch stories from you even if I've already been following them and know all of the details. Even if I've already watched several other true crime channels cover it. Even if I've never heard of the story and if I were to read it in a headline I might just scroll by it. I listen to your stories because you pull me in and keep me compelled to listen to the rest of the story. I also love love love how you're telling the story to your fiance (husband, now :D ) and he reacts accordingly and asks the questions we're all thinking. This is such a winning method that you have. I love everything about your stories. Also, as a side note, one thing that I have admired in the past couple of your videos that I have watched is that you A) give a warning if googling the case will result in graphic images and, most importantly, B) say "if you're interested in seeing the autopsy/crime photos they're available somewhere if you just search for them" instead of trying to profit off of it somehow. Lastly, I love love love all the merch. I love merch and I like being able to show off the things that I love as well as possibly influence someone else to come check you out. I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate everything you do. I love that you cover cases from all over the world that no one else mainstream is really covering. Your channel is just amazing. Thank you so much

[@peach445]

I was a kid when this happened. All I know is as a kid, all I could hear from the adults were "Why is this being televised? The hostage taker will see everything!"

[@ConfusedWonkie]

My family is from HK, The day after this case, my mom went to work.. all her colleagues are Filipino or hk Chinese , usually her place of work is filled with laughs and joy but that day she said it was so tense you could hear a pin drop.

[@ConfusedWonkie]

This case shook a lot of Hong Kong’s ppl and Cantonese ppl in general. I remember how much fear and anger and eventually even discrimination the older Cantonese community started feeling towards the Philippines and the people of the region. It was a really sad time and honestly some still feel that sadly

[@arvinjay336]

Hong Kong was insulted by the president benigno aquino III at that time as he smiled at the victims, he was the most stupidest president ever.

[@--hydra]

i was very young when this happened so i only vaguely remember this. never went out of the way to research or ask people about the details. what happened here is so freaking frustrating. i'm so ashamed of my own country's government.

[@mikepattaya6769]

Wow... establish a perimeter, communicate with hostages, redirect traffic, interview hostages... its all so simple... You are right... its an easy job yet, they failed. I like how this story started as a victim story... but the main focus was the incompetence of authority and increasing awareness of incompetent decision makers. I guess spicy journalism does have perks.

[@jmangga9200]

I remember my family watching the hostage on news when I was young and it really terrified me. It was livestreamed and I remember that it was my first time witnessing gunshots in real time through the tv. I got sleepless nights over that. Stephanie revisiting this case clarified the horrifiying situation that had happened to the tourists that a young child like me at that time couldn't comprehend. Rest in peace to the victims 💔

[@arveanas]

The news was covering it when it began up until it ended. It was unbelievable hearing the gunshots live on TV.

[@lord.rivaille13]

From Philippines here! I just saw the title and knew it was from our country. I was still young back then when it happened while we were on a field trip around the area but the incident is still on my mind like it just happened a week ago. Thank you for covering this case Stephanie.

[@solo_ni_julie]

I remember this case. I think I was a kid when this happened and listening to the case again has triggered me. The poor leadership, no plans, poor skills, the ego and the disorganization. The incompetence has led to this unfortunate event. I could only pray for the victims and their family.

[@arvinjay336]

@solo_ni_julie7543 even more crazy when the president abnoy aquino at that time SMILED at the victims of the tragedy

[@Veectory]

i vaguely remember this. I thought it was from a movie I recalled but this video refreshed my memory that it in fact was not..

[@carmengogeidnas9670]

I wasn't sure if I believed Christian that he was a victim of police brutality until hearing all the facts of this case. Mendoza sounds like the kind of guy who is used to getting what he wants by force and is not at all afraid to do something illegal or immoral.

[@MariAnimates]

I can imagine what it would feel like to survive this knowing you were supposed to die. But nothing like this. I survived a deadly car accident by sheer luck. I was in a four lane, and the person next to me decided I was going to slow and passed me. Just as he did that the three cars in front of both of us crashed. Then the car in front of me. I was able to break because I was behind him. The crash was really bad, the cars were DESTROYED, just crunched crushed hunks of metal. It was so surreal. This situation is just so much more brutal than what I've chalked up to fate. He was delibrate

[@Phiepika_]

I'm glad you're okay broski

[@saku_438]

I’m so sorry this happened to you and that you had to witness such a traumatising crash, please take good care of yourself 🤍

[@MariAnimates]

@@Phiepika_ I appreciate that

[@MariAnimates]

@@saku_438 Ive had years to cope with and understand the accident through my faith. I am doing fine. Imagining myself in this situation, it wouldn't be the same story. I feel so much for the victims

[@Phiepika_]

@@MariAnimates ofc my bro

[@jiannkay12]

I was a high school student when this happened. And it was my sister’s birthday. I was so scared that day and couldn’t even sleep by myself. It was traumatizing watching the whole hostage taking. This was really handled very poorly. My heart goes out to the families that were affected by this. It is still clear in my mind up to this day 😢

[@amirrahmae1217]

No one can tell a story like Steph! prayers to everyone involved and their families 🫶🏾

[@bbvip6227]

i love your channel, not only because the content is so great, but i loveeee how you never ask to subscribe or hit like. you start a video and get right into it which i really like.

[@aguinimelissa4049]

i love how stephanie just tells u the important stories tht leads up to the primary event just to put the listeners/watchers in the picture and be able to understand fully wht happened i just love the way you narrate it good job honestly thnk youuuu guys for your hard work

[@nicolemacatangay1935]

From what I remember watching this incident live on tv, there were actually bystanders who were injured by stray bullets. The police really should have secured the perimeter better because even people not involved in the hostage-taking got hurt.

[@PennXD]

Alot of police really suck and don't even make sure to not get other innocent people hurt its horrible.

[@taeshoshi]

i am always so amazed and proud of the way u tell stories. i love your story telling ♡ !!!

[@aerssyhh]

“listen, not a great way to apply for a job if u tell me” LMAOO 😭😭

[@Rickeded-hj1wi]

Remembering this from when I was in high school. We were all anxious about what would happen to those poor tourists. The incompetence was beyond comprehension.

[@thelittlebleep]

i have a vivid memory of this as a 15 year old kid, watching it all unfold in front of our television... everything was televised live, every news channel was on it... i remember my dad going through a lot of emotions at the time... angered, ashamed, saddened by the situation, as he's a provincial cop himself at the time... seeing how the media could easily have the access to everything, how everything was handled, it was totally absurd... p.s. thank you Stephanie for always commemorating the victims... i love how you have this approach where "those people are not just victims, they are loved ones, just like you and me, individuals who has/had families..." i totally feel the respect on each case you tackle...

[@main2333]

Sounds like the government didn’t want to pay for his benefits when he retire. So used this as an excuse. They knew they had to get rid of him. Even if it meant innocent lives were to happen

[@pugnaciousdeliciososa2191]

I remember seeing the footage of the attempted "rescue" on the news in real-time during a special Hong Kong broadcast. It was pathetic watching the so-called "elite" cops going in there with mis-matched firearms and the one guy who smacking the windows with his hammer and failing to break any, though he was accused of hitting one of the tourists who's head was against the window. They missed the golden period of 10 minutes and after that the main option would be to snipe the ex-cop, but the team they brought was from the same station as the hostage-taker and so they had sympathies for the guy. This greatly delayed taking a decisive action meanwhile the hostage-taker grew increasingly agitated and finally really lost it when his brother came and the cops outside took him down for entering a restricted area and took his service pistol. Bro freaked out and yelled what happened to the hostage taker which really set the guy off (photos of the bro on the ground almost looked like the guy was getting SAed). The final straw was that a couple of tourists including some old men with no combat experience, tried to jump the distracted hostage-taker and seize the gun, but the guy was easily able to fight off the attempt. Then came the shooting.

[@sumayyahadetunmbi4347]

everything about the situation is just sad

[@lemondotsquares]

I remember when this happened. I was a teen in school and we watched the news and waited for updates as things were happening. I went to school not too far from here, I remember getting home was quite an ordeal. I remember the frustration and fear i felt as we watched in school, and listened to the radio on the way home. This should have NEVER happened. The sheer incompetence. The corruption. All of it shouldn’t had happened. There are many things that had made me feel sad, disappointed, and a hopelessness for my home country, and this is definitely one of those things. I am part chinese and have family in hongkong. I remember thinking it could have been my family on that bus. Thank you for talking about this. It has helped me rectify and clarify some of the things i was feeling back then; it is a privilege to do so. I hope the family of the victims are doing much better now, and continue to be strong.

[@pauline7384]

i vividly remember this back in highschool. the morning after the fiasco we were assigned to make a class report about how the media and authorities failed the entire country. It was so bizarre

[@tiniusable]

I watched this as a kid back then and I didn't understand what was happening. Now as an adult, I can see the way our government handled it and it was as bad as it gets. I agree that if only they've listened to Mendoza's demands, no one would've died, no one would've gotten hurt, and no shooting would've happened. This really goes to show that our government needs new leaders and leaders that knows how to listen and handle situations such as this.

[@euneiros]

Like obviously the negotiators handled this awfully and did pretty much everything wrong but I can't imagine letting that awful man, someone willing to keep people hostage, terrorize them, and then eventually murder them in cold blood, just get back his old job as a police officer. Did he seriously think thats the way to go about justice? One fcked up individual he was, i hope hes rotting in hell. Rest in peace to all the victims 😢and prayers to the survivors

[@dulcerodriguez3950]

The same thing I was thinking, he was a menace to society. I think the allegations against him were true and that the police were covering up.

[@Fluffy-Fluffy]

Yeah I wrote the same thing. How would you even want him back as a cop even if you gave in, that can only be corruption at its finest. It would also teach others they can just take folks hostage and get what they demand. I can only hope that they made that letter to get him off the bus and then arrest him anyway and not to truly give him his old job back, because otherwise it just shows how fucked the Filipines are with a police and government like that. If only that letter though would have made it on time instead of officials casually going about their day not giving a shit. A truly awful case.

[@euneiros]

@@dulcerodriguez3950 like i was hesitant at first about the robbing allegations but after Steph mentioned that he also had a gang rape allegation in the past it sealed the deal for me. Cuz why would any random civilian woman implicate a bunch of police officers of assaulting her, especially in a country like the Philippines? and seeing as he proceeded to do what he did with the hostages he clearly has no morals and was defo corrupt even before he got fired

[@euneiros]

@@Fluffy-Fluffy i thought that they could like give him the letter and then get rid of him somehow... Like say he got injured in action and fire him again if had injuries and couldn't be a cop anymore 😭 or that he died in a car accident or something. That's what I'd do idk.

[@BlackKiryuu]

The government officials are to blame too.

[@kat.k1920]

Can't imagine being in the shoes of the hostages, such fear and panic. Praying for everyone in that entire mess. Government needs to be retrained, cops, negotiator's, and the whole lot of them in many countries. Love your videos and the way you deliver them. You great at holding someones attention. Very informative, thank you

[@bm-ww8kb]

america especially though

[@sfmd5764]

Media/paparazzi are actually so disgusting sometimes… I feel if he was capable of this he was definitely capable of the situation that got him fired in the first place. TOO many stories where there is incompetent police..

[@arielwanhc]

As a Hong Konger, I remember watching this news and those live clips the whole day on the local tv channel, and I was only 10. This news had such a huge impact on me as a child, I can't even imagine how those kids on the bus who were around my age would feel, or what kind of traumatic impact they got from this. That summer was unforgettable in a negative way, I still remember how unreal this news sounded like when it first came out, the tension between HKers and Philipinos was very intense during that time. I don't think any HKers who lived through this part of the history and witnessed it, would ever forget about it, I would not forget how furious we all were because of how stupid the Philipino government was to deal with the hostage situation (still personally am angry at those people who acted like the crime scene is a sightseeing spot as well), and how I personally felt or even admired how the people on the bus attempted to save someone else on the bus. Thank you for covering this case.

[@SillyGoooseOffical]

This channel/podcast is the only one I go to for listening to true crime, it’s so well organized and thought out, I can’t imagine how long it takes to research these topics, especially while organizing your wedding! So I have huge respect for you Steph and congrats on your upcoming wedding! You and your fiancé are perfect for each other :) ♥️

[@0Onyx13]

Between this case and the Sewol one, I'm so frustrated that there are the resources available to help with the current situation and yet in both cases the President doesn't give the "go"... 🤬

[@0Onyx13]

Oh wow, Stephanie just said it too, I swear I didn't skip ahead or wrote the comment after having heard her, cause why would I, it's gonna go unnoticed anyway and that's fine cause I write comments to express my thoughts and get them out of my head, I really don't care if anyone even reads them or not.

[@lynnlampreau2089]

My heart and prayers go out to all affected 🙏 truly heartbreaking. May God watch over all of them and their loved ones ❤

[@marley9904]

Hi again Stef, thanks for covering this horrible, horrible, barbaric killings. Again, this is the reason I left Philippines, going to eat dinner while hostages are about to be slaughtered, is beyond me. This whole thing was absolutely a DISGRACE to the Filipinos bc of police incompetence.

[@suzimonkey345]

I love your storytelling style, it’s lovely to listen to while relaxing…& occasionally getting traumatised by the content! 😊❤😊

[@daniii_1018]

I don't care if he's a victim because what he did is unforgivable he is clearly a monster! Heartbreaking to those victims💔💔💔

[@SadieMage]

This is a classic example of how the silent treatment and lack of genuine communication can escalate any situation and any person, but it’s particularly devastating when it happens with someone unstable or malicious.

[@lyannel.2763]

I just stumbled upon your channel last week and I couldn't stop listening to your videos ! I'm thankful there's someone who's just sympathetic over these people.

[@michajero6992]

I was so young when this happened and so naive that I was one of the group that feel pity on the hostage taker. But now knowing what I know about the police system, I have no more sympathy for him.

[@GingerPlease]

What a wild story! So many wrong choices by professionals and people that should have done better. I just found your channel and wow I am loving your content! You are such a good narrative storyteller and good at getting those important extra details that many seem to miss. You do great at having empathy and expressing indignation about the situation without overly sensationalizing it in an unrealistic way. Great content!

[@applesloves]

Stephanie, I don’t know if you’ll see this, but I was wondering if you could talk about the the “Utøya case” it’s one of Norways most tragic and horrific cases, where approximately 77 people from the ages of 14 to 60+ where killed, and over 200 severely injured, on the Utoya (utøya) island where they were having a summer camp. The man who did it, also fired bombs in Oslo.

[@ElleA.595]

I was 15, 3rd year in HS and I remember my family and I watching it live on TV. Mixed emotions of pity, anger and grief. We all went through thoughts like he's the main perpetrator to he's a victim too.

[@angelmateo6567]

Most of us grew up knowing this case in the back of our minds, watching it live on the news until the night came. Hearing and watching how irresponsible the cops and the negotiator handled this case now is so heartbreaking especially when you witnessed on live tv how the rampage on the bus started. My sympathy goes to the families of the victims who had to suffer the consequences of police corruption in the Philippines.

[@pauline7384]

the morning after the incident my entire school was furious of how everyone incompetently handled the situation. and the media and authorities still havent changed their ways

[@archae8360]

This was the event that is very vivid in my memory until now but still feels so surreal. I watched the whole coverage. My mother told me not to watch but everyone at home were glued to the TV. I never really understood what was happening that time because I was 11. I had a lot of questions but even the 11 year old me didn't understand why the whole thing was LIVE ON NATIONAL TV! It's like broadcasting how incompetent the authorities were. It was so scary and I was just watching through the TV. I can never in my whole life imagine what the victims experienced. Now that I'm hearing these details and is understanding what actually happened. This is just so horrible.

[@hanasorrosa698]

I remember watching this on LIVE TV. It was as if watching a movie not knowing what happens next. Listening to this made me recall that exact moment.

[@senselesschiId]

I LOVE. All the things you post, you have a lovely voice to listen to! Thank you so much for ALL THE WORK you put into the videos you produce. The research and time and quality. thank you so much. I enjoy these thoroughly

[@mango-x3c]

I was crying the whole time my heart aches to all the victims

[@marielmirror]

Context on 20:15 “shabu” is not the same as “shabu-shabu” (hotpot). In the Philippines, the term “shabu” is a slang term for Crystal Meth/Methamphetamine.

[@prxncesslea]

i cannot believe the way they failed these innocent people. may all those who lost their beautiful lives rest in peace❤️

[@khayezerna3301]

I'm a Filipino and watched this terrifying situation live on TV when I was young. Even as a kid, I was terribly ashamed of how the government and everyone involved handled the situation. I couldn't contain my sadness over what happened that should have been prevented. Many innocent people died and I pray that their families find comfort every time they remember their lost loved ones. I also remember after this incident, a lot of Filipinos grew some fear of riding a bus thinking that they would end up being held hostage as well.

[@NNVSG]

Lets just appreciate that Stephanie is still posting while she is arranging her wedding like?! BTW congratulations on the wedding guys!

[@janicemoss5818]

We want wedding pics🎉

[@thekidruss]

Do people usually take off work to be able to plan their weddings??

[@phython124]

@@thekidruss their parasocial relationship be hitting hard

[@uglyboi2735]

You posted this another another video, stfu

[@jerlydelacruz9228]

i'm a filipino, and was young when this happened. i remember coming home from school, and seeing my family tune in to this with tension. i didn't understand the extent of what was happening. i didn't even know that there were deaths bcoz my older brother and sister took me to bed before shots were fired, and now i know why. everything was graphic. many photos of the citizens at the time were resurfacing recently, and it's so embarassing how they were treating it like an attraction. they were taking selfies, smiling and joking around. i can only imagine how the hostages' families felt back in HK watching everything unfold live, and then seeing the flippant bystanders. thank you so much for shedding light on these cases that most of us didn't even know about.

[@shynan252]

As a Filipino citizen living here, I'm sick and tired of it, improvement is there but it's slow..hopefully we'll have a better future for ourselves and be able to avoid situations such as this, my heart goes out to the victims, I am so sorry that you had to experience that.

[@Malloryamie]

This case hurts a lot… Also appreciate the small heroes in this incident, the tour guide stayed and took care of the tourists, the mum who said someone else’s kid is her nephew when she was allowed leave by the gunman, saved another kid from harm as well.

[@josephrehoy3850]

I’ve been searching for new podcast to listen to and Im so glad that your channel popped up on my screen. Very vivid way of story telling. I dont usually watching on screen I just listen to it while at work lol. But like I said, I can picture in my head all the scene that you’ve been telling so bravo!

[@addiewesley3722]

Hey stephanie! You did such a great job covering this case while respecting the culture so much. I just wanted to clarify that Tagalog is pronounced tuh-gaa-luhg. 🇵🇭

[@lizxu322]

Man the Filipinos really, really dropped the ball on this one. Almost everything done by the authorities was wrong. I hope they studied this case to the death so they can improve the government and agencies and everything. Shame on this corrupted country

[@MAE81706]

Praying for my country, I hope our generation can improved our law and corruption 🙏

[@lizxu322]

@@MAE81706 thank you. Many Filipinos I met are wonderful people but their authorities are not so good. Other corrupted countries I dislike are North Korea, China, Lebanon, Russia, India etc the list goes on. In fact the Philippines are positively tame compared to the corruption of other countries. I'm probably on the hit list for some of those countries now lol

[@Liliarthan]

If they don’t address the corruption then nothing will change. Unfortunately corrupt governments are not motivated to resolve corruption.

[@Michelle-rdz17]

@@Liliarthan seems nothing has changed though bc these things still happen

[@oliveoyl1802]

Ppl are good until they have power and authority. Then they become dumb, blind and unfeeling towards anyone but themselves and will do anything to hold onto that power once they've tasted it.