The eighth crewmember has died as a result of the accident onboard the S/S Norway on May 25, 2003. Forty-four year old chef, Rolando Tejero, had been in intensive care since the accident. He had worked for NCL for 20 years onboard various ships including Norwegian Majesty, Norwegian Dream, Star Odyssey, Norwegian Crown, Starward, Southward, Skyward and the S/S Norway. Rolando Tejero was from Manila, Philippines. Our deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with Rolando’s family.
Last week, the other five crewmembers who remained hospitalized were released. They are resting comfortably with family in Miami or at local hotels where they are receiving outpatient care.
The five crewmembers who have been released are: Odeneil, Manaman, 35, a stoker from Laguna, Philippines who has worked for NCL for seven years; Paul Peralta, 34, a utility/hotel worker from Bacolod, Philippines who joined NCL in October last year; Julie Petalio, 28, a utility/hotel worker from Muntinlupa City, Philippines who is on his first contract with NCL; Ronnie Melicio, 26, a junior engine man from Cagayan de Oro, Philippines who joined NCL last year; and Dean Campbell, 22, a utility/hotel worker from Bluefields, Nicaragua, who joined NCL last December.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the U.S. Coast Guard have now completed their on-site investigation although the NTSB has stated that it may take a year to determine the cause of the accident. Norwegian Cruise Line is finalizing repair plans and will soon move the S/S Norway from Miami to a shipyard.
NCL will distribute updates as they become available.