Percy,

Thanks so much for the prompt and very comprehensive reply -- I genuinely appreciate it.

Clearly then, there seems to be little cause for optimism in terms of compensation expectations -- I think this will be a learning curve all round. (Saying that, at least I landed safely in Manila, which wasn't a foregone result whilst in the air, so I can be very thankful that.)

Again, Percy, thank you for your input here -- whilst disappointing, it's certainly an interesting example that you've shared, so thank you.

All the best.