Philippine Airlines (PAL), the country’s flag carrier, continues to strengthen its commitment to expanding connectivity in the Visayas region by launching two exciting new routes directly from Cebu: Cebu to Catarman in Northern Samar and Cebu to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam.
The announcement was made today during a press and product update event held at Radisson Blu Cebu, drawing the attention of media representatives, travel industry leaders, and key stakeholders. The event began at 10:30 AM and was hosted by PAL executives who highlighted the airline's mission to provide better accessibility and travel convenience for both domestic and international passengers.
✈️ New Routes from Cebu:
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Cebu–Catarman (Domestic Route)
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A strategic addition that enhances air travel access between Cebu and Northern Samar.
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Expected to serve OFWs, local tourists, and residents looking for more efficient inter-island connectivity.
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Flight Schedule:
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Flight PR 2653 (Cebu to Catarman): Departs Mactan-Cebu at 9:50 AM; arrives in Catarman at 10:55 AM.
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Flight PR 2654 (Catarman to Cebu): Departs Catarman at 11:25 AM; arrives in Cebu at 12:30 PM.
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Operates every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
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Aircraft: 86-seater De Havilland Dash 8-400 Next Generation.
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Cebu–Ho Chi Minh (International Route)
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PAL’s latest international route strengthens the air bridge between the Philippines and Vietnam.
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This expansion supports tourism, business travel, and cultural exchange between two rapidly growing Southeast Asian cities.
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The service will offer seamless connections for travelers from the Visayas and Mindanao without the need to transit via Manila.
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Inaugural Flight Details:
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Date: May 2, 2025
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Flight Number: PR 599
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Departure from Cebu (CEB): 10:00 AM
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Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City (SGN): 12:30 PM
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Return Flight:
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Flight Number: PR 600
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Departure from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN): 1:30 PM
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Arrival in Cebu (CEB): 6:00 PM
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Operates every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
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Note: Flight times are subject to change. Please refer to PAL's official website for the most up-to-date schedule.
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A Stronger Central Hub
Cebu has long been recognized as PAL’s vital hub in the Visayas, and today’s unveiling marks another step in the airline’s regional growth strategy. The addition of these two routes is part of PAL’s broader initiative to decentralize flight options and improve direct regional links that support economic development.
During the event, PAL executives shared insights on how these new routes will enhance regional mobility, create more tourism opportunities, and ease logistics and trade links between islands and neighboring countries.
Looking Ahead
With Cebu’s Mactan-Cebu International Airport serving as a key gateway to the southern Philippines, these new direct routes affirm PAL’s vision of Cebu as a global aviation hub. The airline also hinted at more regional and international expansion plans, promising more exciting announcements in the coming months.
For more information, flight schedules, and ticket reservations, travelers are encouraged to visit the official Philippine Airlines website or consult their local travel agents.
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