The Philippine Airlines (PAL) had a major breakthrough and celebration after it launched new direct flight schedules from Cebu to Singapore and back no less than four times a week. The victory event was held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Nina ballroom where a short program with triumphant toasts was held.

Among the distinguished guests were PAL executives from Manila, namely Ryan Uy, the Vice President for sales; Harry Inoferio, senior assistant VP for Philippine sales; Cielo Villaluna, external communications manager; and Mayette Casanova, assistant VP for product loyalty and Mabuhay Miles.

Coming from Cebu, on the other hand, were PAL area head for the Visayas, Reyani Romano; Gorordo ticket sales office manager Marijo Araneta; Mactan PAL airport office manager Emillie Parawan; Visayas passenger sales manager Pamela Samson; and Osmena Boulevard ticket office officer-in-charge Mae Ong.

Representatives or executive staff members from the Visayas area were also present, namely Annie Borromoe, Rosella Albino and Mary Ann Tiu. The occasion was also graced by senior account officers Tonette Bastasa, Herman Garganera, Cheryl Bornec and Eldee Alvaro.

Cebu City mayor Tommy Osmena was also present, as well as PAL regular passenger Amparito Lluillier. Others seen in the special occasion were Million Miler Dr. Jose Enrique de las Pena, Architect Joy Onozawa, US Consular Agent Glenn Loop with his wife Honey, and the tourism department’s Judy Gabato, who is OIC for Region 7.

There were also travel agents present in the persons of Aida Uy, Gwen Po, Rosie Mancao, Carlos Colmenares and Angelita Dy. A press conference was earlier held and business class tickets for Singapore were given to lucky winners through a raffle. Winners were Leilani Paredes and Cookie Newman.

Information on new PAL departure schedule to Singapore was made available. The schedule includes the following flights: Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 10 pm. These flights arrive the next day scheduled at 1:45 am.

PAL flights back to Cebu from Singapore leaves at 2:45 am every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Monday. These flights all arrive the same day of their departure, at 6:45 am.

Other important flights launched on this special occasion were those coming from Cebu and going to Caticlan, which by the way is the best or most convenient link to Boracay. This flight then proceeds to Clark. This schedule provides departures everyday which starts at 8:40 am.

It is expected that by June 16, PAL will provide flights coming from Cebu to Chengdu, China. And before the year ends, direct flights will also be added from Cebu to Clark are also expected.

With the launch of the Cebu-Singapore flights, it will be easier for Filipinos to indulge in Singapore’s unique shopping experience, which involves strolling around the Orchard Road, considered as the country’s “golden strip,” feeling like a kid again on the rides at the Universal Studios, and exploring the Gardens by the Bay, among other things.