PPA suspends 2 firms over ‘cruise chaos’

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has issued a 30-day suspension against two firms in connection with the “cruise chaos” controversy involving M/V Norwegian Jewel in November.

In a statement yesterday, the PPA said it suspended ship agent Ben Line Agencies Inc. and shore excursion provider TravelPeople Ltd. after a cruise disembarkation controversy at the Port of Manila went viral on social media.

A certain Nelson Terible, reportedly a passenger of the cruise ship, posted on Facebook about the poor service after they arrived at the Manila South Harbor on Nov. 30.

“This kind of incident is unacceptable, especially since there were pre-arrival meetings to prepare for the turnaround call where about 2,300 passengers will disembark and 2,500 passengers will also board the cruise ship,” PPA Port Management Office-National Capital Region South Port manager Catherine Esto said.

While suspended, the two firms will not be allowed to provide services for another cruise tour scheduled to arrive on Jan. 6 next year.