MANILA, Philippines -- Stop tormenting the families of the victims of MV Princess of the Stars, Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez told owner Sulpicio Lines Inc. (SLI).

Gonzalez issued the statement following reports that SLI has been distributing blank sheets with special powers of attorney (SPA) and promising P200,000 to relatives of the victims.

"Stop tormenting the victim's kin. You keep announcing that this people will get P200,000 and yet the system of getting the compensation is complicated," Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez said that Sulpicio's situation could worsen once it would be proven that the shipping firm, owner of the ‘Princess’ was behind distribution of the blank SPA's.

He also ordered the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) to assist the victims although the PAO has started doing this.

Gonzalez said another team of PAO lawyers were assisting the victims and relatives in Cebu and Romblon.

PAO Chief Persida Rueda-Acosta, however, said no official from Sulpicio Lines were coordinating with them. She said the victims’ relatives also told her that Sulpicio employees were telling them that the process of claims would be prolonged if they would seek assistance from PAO.

"What they are doing is not in accordance with humanitarian considerations," Gonzalez said.