Demonstrators protest near the Philippine consulate in Hong Kong on Tuesday. A Taiwan fisherman was killed by the Philippine Coast Guard on Thursday. TYRONE SIU / REUTERS

MANILA - Philippine President Benigno Aquino has appointed Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) Chairman Amadeo Perez as his personal representative to convey his apology to the family of the Taiwan fisherman who was killed by the Philippine Coast Guards, presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said Wednesday.

"The President has appointed MECO Chairman Amadeo Perez as his personal representative who will convey his and the Filipino people's deep regret and apology to the family of Mr. Hung Shi- chen as well as to the people of Taiwan over the unfortunate and unintended loss of life," Lacierda said in a statement.