22nd case filed against Sulpicio

CEBU - The 22nd civil case against Sulpicio Lines, Inc. in connection with the June 21 sinking of one of its passenger vessels, the MV Princess of the Stars, off Sibuyan Island in Romblon province, was filed yesterday before the Regional Trial Court.

Ruel Anthony Javier has asked the shipping company to pay P5.280 million in actual and compensatory damages including moral and exemplary damages of P1.6 million for the death of his wife, Jennifer, and his son, Renz Anthony who were passengers of the ill-fated Princess of the Stars. A civil indemnity of P50,000 was also asked.

Charges of gross negligence, reckless imprudence, and breach of contract were filed against the shipping company, ship captain Florencio Marimon, SLI president Enrique Go, executive vice president Carlos Go, VP and chief executive Eusebio Go, senior VP Victorino, and other vice presidents -Dominador Go, Ricardo Go, Edward Go, and Edgar Go.

The amount was based on the estimated earnings of the victim.

The shipping company was also asked to pay an amount equivalent to 20 percent of the total monetary award as attorney’s fees pursuant to Republic Act 9406 or the Public Attorney’s Office Law.

The Public Attorney’s Office, through chief public lawyer Persida Rueda-Acosta, assisted the plaintiffs in filing the charges.

The complainant said the sinking was brought about by the company’s gross negligence, reckless imprudence, and breach of contract.

In the complaint, Javier said that SLI released their insurance amounting to P200,000 but not before compelling him to sign SLI’s unilaterally prepared release and quitclaim, the contents of which, absolved completely the shipping company from any liability to the complainant for the death of his wife and son. — Jasmin R. Uy/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)