Another lawsuit filed against SLI

CEBU - Another multi-million peso damage suit has been filed against Sulpicio Lines yesterday asking the company to pay P16.740 million in actual and compensatory damages.

This case is the 16th case so far in connection with the sinking of the M/V Princess of the Stars off Romblon province last June 21.

Charges of gross negligence, reckless imprudence and breach of contract was filed against the shipping company, ship captain Florencio Marimon, SLI President Enrique Go, Executive Vice President Eusebio Go, VP and Chief Executive Carlos Go, Senior VP Victoriano Go and other vice-presidents Dominador Go, Ricardo Go, Edward Go and Edgar Go.

Alice Maunes along with her children Dammae Rose, Dexter and Dalton Maunes filed the complaint before the Regional Trial Court in Cebu demanding SLI to pay them moral and exemplary damages also of P800,000 for the death of Alice’s husband Alejandro, who is an engineer.

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 PAO, through Chief Public Attorney Persida Rueda-Acosta, assisted the plaintiffs in filing the charges.

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

In their complaint, Maunes 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 children. — Jasmin R. Uy/BRP (THE FREEMAN)