Cebu Pacific Settles Out of Court with Davao Passengers

A group of passengers that were seeking compensation from a Cebu Pacific accident that involved an A320 aircraft veering off the runway in Davao last June have stated that the airline has compensated them. While Cebu Pacific will not confirm whether it entered into an out of court settlement with the group or not, the members of the group confirm that reasonable compensation has been received. 

Copyright Photo: AFP

The forty two passengers were represented by Robert De Leon who confirmed with reporters that each of the group's members had been compensated. Rumours suggest that each of the 42 complainants received approximately P100,000 in compensation. 

Michelle Pestano-Fojas, Corporate Communications Manager for Cebu Pacific, would not release any information or details. "Communications to passengers are confidential," said Pestano-Fojas. "We need to respect the privacy of the passengers."  De Leon noted that the agreement made with Cebu Pacific did not permit him to divulge the amount of compensation. Victims were also asked to remain quiet after receiving their share. He admitted that claims of "psychological injuries" did not necessarily constitute grounds for compensation and was potentially unprecedented in the country.

Andrew Bautista, leader of the group, confirmed that all 42 members had received money by the evening of Wednesday, July 24. Members of the group are pleased that everything is finally over and they are praising Cebu Pacific for their willingness to negotiate and settle without court intervention. 

In a statement released to the media, Bautista said, "The airline's representatives have listened to our concerns about passenger service and handling, and recognized specific points for improvement, and we have also agreed to accept their very reasonable offer of financial assistance to cover passengers' expenses related to the incident." Bautista added that the respect given to the passengers by Cebu Pacific was far more important than any money received. "It was enough to clear the trauma we experienced," said Bautista.