‘MV Princess’ hearing proceeds despite inhibition order on judge

Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 49 Judge Daniel C. Villanueva pushed through with the hearing on the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) request for execution of its decision awarding P241-million to victims of M/V Princess of the Stars despite orders from the Court of Appeals that he should inhibit from the case.

READ: SC asked to reverse order for judge’s inhibition from ‘Princess’ case

During Wednesday’s hearing, Villanueva gave Sulpicio Lines 15 days to submit a position paper explaining their opposition to PAO’s two motions for execution. PAO was allowed to respond on an optional basis.

PAO Chief Persida V. Rueda-Acosta said Sulpicio has filed an invalid appeal which should not be considered.

Acosta said with the invalid appeal, the Sept. 18, 2015 decision of the Manila Court should be considered final and executory.

READ: Tears greet P241-M victory for ‘MV Princess’ victims

The court has set the next hearing on March 1.

Also during the hearing, Villanueva did not comment on whether he will abide by the CA ruling, only asking the PAO about its appeal with the Supreme Court.

Acosta told Villanueva that he should not inhibit from the case citing “good reasons” to stay on the case.

PAO already challenged before the Supreme Court the CA’s order against Villanueva.

“Hon. Villanueva’s inhibition at the end stage of the trial proceedings is undoubtedly antithetical to the speedy administration of justice; worse, it is highly prejudicial to the victims of the tragedy as it intends to abort the execution proceedings,” PAO told the high court.

The MV Princess of the Stars capsized on June 21, 2008 into the waters off Sibuyan Island in Romblon during the onslaught of the typhoon “Frank.” Out of the 851 passengers and crew onboard, only 32 survived. CDG

READ: Court awards P241-M damages to MV Princess of the Stars victims