Del Monte eyes countersuit vs Sulpicio over endosulfan shipment

MANILA, Philippines — The legal row stemming from the MV "Princess of the Stars" tragedy got messier Wednesday with Del Monte Philippines, Inc., considering counter-charges against ship owner Sulpicio Lines Inc. Radio dzBB's Sam Nielsen reported that Del Monte general manager Cito Alejandro said they are now "studying" their legal options on the matter. Alejandro questioned the multimillion-peso damage suit lodged by Sulpicio against Del Monte over a 10-ton endosulfan shipment aboard the capsized vessel. He branded as baseless Sulpicio's claim that Del Monte should be accountable for "misdeclaration" of cargo when it did not mark the endosulfan as dangerous. The discovery of the endosulfan prompted authorities to call off ongoing rescue and relief efforts near the ship, and impose a fishing ban on nearby San Fernando town in Romblon. Meanwhile, Sulpicio amended its civil case against the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) after a judge pointed out their "lapse." Radio dzBB's Tuesday Niu reported that Manila judge Silvino Pampilo Jr. said the respondent in the complaint should be a person and not a government agency. Sulpicio amended its complaint to include Pagasa chief Prisco Nilo and weather services head Nathaniel Cruz as respondents. Sulpicio accused the two of neglect of duty in making an accurate forecast, which it blamed for the capsizing of the ill-fated vessel. - GMANews.TV