Labor case vs. Sulpicio suffers delay

CEBU, Philippines – The seven workers of Sulpicio Lines, Inc. who sued the shipping firm before the National Labor Relations Commission may have to wait longer for the resolution of their complaint.

This after Executive Labor Arbiter Julie Rendoque, the one handling the case, was promoted for a higher position in Manila. Assistant Labor Arbiter Monalisa Rendoque said the complaint will have to be raffled off to another labor arbiter.

Pablito Ravado, Joel Coyoca, Randolph Garcia, Junie Acasio, Vicente Pepito, Rolando Bibera and Segundino Daitol filed the complaint for constructive dismissal, payment of separation pay, as well as for other benefits after they were laid off by the company last July.

SLI had let go 136 of its regular officers and crew members of at least eight passenger vessels owing to the heavy losses caused by the suspension of its operation by the Maritime Industry Authority following the sinking of the M/V Princess of the Stars last year.

The case is scheduled to be re-raffled next week. — Jasmin R. Uy/JMO   (THE FREEMAN)