Ventis Maritime Corporation v. Joseph B. Cayabyab

Summary

This Supreme Court case involves a seafarer's claim for disability benefits after developing psychiatric disorder during employment. Cayabyab worked as wiper on M/V Dover Highway and developed mental health issues including paranoia and violent behavior, leading to repatriation and Grade 6 disability assessment. He claimed superior benefits under alleged CBA, but the Supreme Court held he failed to prove CBA's existence, coverage of his employment, and that disability arose from accident as required. The Court applied POEA-SEC instead, awarded Grade 6 disability benefits, and imposed 6% legal interest. The decision establishes three requisites for claiming CBA disability benefits: proving CBA existence, employment coverage, and compliance with CBA conditions. It demonstrates the Court's balanced approach between protecting seafarers' rights and requiring substantial evidence for superior benefit claims.