52 Chinese released in Philippines

BEIJING - 52 of the 78 Chinese nationals detained by the Philippines were released Thursday evening through the efforts of the Chinese embassy in Manila, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Friday.    

"The rest are waiting for the result of investigations," Spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks at a regular press briefing.    

He said all are safe, healthy and in a good mental state.    

The 78 Chinese nationals were arrested by the Bureau of Immigration of the Philippines on Wednesday afternoon in two shopping malls in Manila.    

All the released Chinese nationals hold valid passports, according to Hong.    

He said the Chinese embassy in Manila will continue to follow the case and provide consular protection and services. 

The embassy reminded Chinese citizens in the Philippines to abide by the local laws and regulations, so as to avoid the risk to their safety, rights and interests, he said.