Westminster Seafarer Management Philippines v. Arnulfo C. Raz

Summary

This Supreme Court case involves a seafarer who suffered a shoulder injury while working as a Fitter on a vessel. After surgery and treatment, the company-designated physician assessed a Grade 9 disability, while the seafarer's chosen doctor declared him permanently unfit for sea duties. The NCMB initially awarded total permanent disability benefits of US$129,212.00, but the Court of Appeals reduced this to US$25,313.00 for Grade 9 disability. The Supreme Court denied the petitioner's challenge to the legal interest and attorney's fees, emphasizing that the petitioner failed to provide adequate proof of payment and that the seafarer was entitled to attorney's fees for being forced to litigate to protect his rights. The case demonstrates the importance of proper medical assessment procedures and documentation requirements in maritime disability claims.