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DFA confirms Azurin held by Canadian immigration
Former Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. was intercepted by Canadian immigration personnel upon his arrival at Langley Airport in Canada, the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed Wednesday. During the budget deliberation on the DFA’s proposed P23 billion for the upcoming fiscal year in the House of Representatives, House Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan inquired about reports of Azurin being held by Canadian immigration authorities. Responding to Libanan’s query, Nueva Ecija Representative Joseph Violago, who sponsored the DFA’s proposed budget before the plenary, positively affirmed the report. “There seems to be a misunderstanding, misinterpretation of what happened. The Canadian government expressed their regrets due to the miscommunication,” Violago said. He noted that Azurin, who resigned from his post in January, voluntarily went back home after being denied from entering Canada. In a separate statement, DFA spokesperson Teresita Daza said that the Philippine government is “in touch” with Canadian authorities regarding Azurin’s case. “The Department is in touch with Canadian authorities and hopes to get a better understanding of the incident soon,” Daza told reporters in a WhatsApp message to reporters. “While our foreign service posts are ready to assist Filipino travelers, including former government officials, these cases have privacy issues surrounding them,” she added. To recall, Azurin resigned from his post in January following Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos’ appeal to the high-ranking officials of the PNP to resign from their posts as part of the internal cleansing of the organization. Abalos sought the courtesy resignation of almost 1,000 police colonels and generals to address the alleged return of ninja cops in the PNP. The post DFA confirms Azurin held by Canadian immigration appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Travelers benefit from MIAA’s STAR program
The Schedule and Terminal Assignment Rationalization program of the Manila International Airport Authority is having a favorable effect on travelers at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The program maximizes the use of the four NAIA terminals starting December 2022 with terminal reassignments for a few airlines. NAIA Terminal 2 has been set aside entirely for domestic flights, in contrast to NAIA Terminal 4, which only accommodates turboprop aircraft. Only NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 are now used to process international flights. MIAA officer-in-charge Bryan Co said that in places like NAIA Terminal 1, where all of Philippine Airlines’ international flights are now listed as serving foreign destinations, passengers have confirmed the convenience and comfort they have felt as a result of the changes. The relocation of Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine employees needed for international flights from NAIA Terminal 2 to NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 resulted in a reduction in wait times. MIAA is now able to increase NAIA Terminal 2’s capacity from 7.5 million to 10 million passengers annually while exclusively serving PAL, AirAsia and Royal Air’s domestic flights as a result of the removal of CIQ infrastructure, including counters and x-ray machines. A senior citizen who was waiting to board her PAL flight PR 2671 to Calbayog shared, “Mas naging accessible, easier to find, and less traffic because of the Skyway (and NAIA Motorway) coming here. Napaka-spacious ng Terminal 2. Mas naging advantageous sa mga senior ones na kamukha ko.” Passengers can now choose from a broader variety of restaurants and retail establishments at NAIA Terminal 3, the largest of the four terminals and home to international airlines, as well as Cebu Pacific’s domestic operations. They also have more time to shop duty-free. With NAIA Terminal 4 now serving purely turboprop flights for Cebgo, AirSWIFT Airlines Philippines, and Sunlight Air, domestic passengers also experienced more streamlined departure and arrival procedures. A passenger who booked Cebgo flight DG 6619 to Naga shared, “The last time I traveled to Davao using the old airport, there were a lot of people. Now, it took me around two to three minutes, and I’m here. It’s so fast. It’s probably been around six years since the last time I used the domestic airport. It’s improved by about 50 percent, and there are a lot of stores. I haven’t experienced any trouble coming in. I’d probably rate it at 10.” The post Travelers benefit from MIAA’s STAR program appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Defector’s plea: Don’t send me back
A Chinese activist who fled to Taiwan is holed up in a local airport, pleading authorities no to send him back to his country. “I hope to seek asylum in the United States or Canada. I request for friends to appeal to Taiwan’s government to please not send me back to China,” Chen Siming wrote on X from the transit area of Taoyuan International Airport. Chen said he fled China three months ago because the methods used by authorities “to maintain stability are becoming more brutal.” He also alleged that Chinese authorities had detained him in the past, confiscated his phone, and conducted a psychiatric evaluation on him. “I could no longer endure (it)... so I fled China on 22 July,” Chen wrote. “On September 22, I finally arrived in Taiwan, the island of freedom.” According to Radio Free Asia, Chen first traveled to Laos after leaving China in July, before crossing into Thailand. But due to worries about being sent to immigration prison in Thailand — a country with a track record of deporting dissidents — he bought a return ticket to China that transited via Taiwan, RFA said. Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council has not responded to requests for comment on Chen’s current status. In 2019 two Chinese dissidents spent more than four months trapped in limbo at Taiwan’s airport after fleeing China. WITH AFP The post Defector’s plea: Don’t send me back appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BBM: Our calm, kind, gentle President
The most challenging thing is to write an essay about the country’s President who is celebrating his birthday. I should probably go back to the years when he was the “crush ng bayan.” From London, he would come home for vacation and would be met at the airport by his doting parents, with his mother kissing him on the forehead. He was very fashionable, from his haircut to his clothes and, well, he was the epitome of “cuteness” as cute could be. He did not sport long hippie hair but had bangs and his lips were well-pronounced. His mom took pride in his looks. “Kamukha ko (he looks like me),” she would say. Bongbong grew into the Oxford student who would come home and occasionally appear on television. I recall in 1973, he and his friends danced the latest craze on live television. He was, by then, oozing with appeal, his shy and boyish smile adding to the enigma that comes with being the president’s son. Many years later, I saw him when he and his sister Irene graced the opening of a project in Isabela. I am trying to remember if it was for natural gas or the largest dam in Asia. But he was there on the stage set up at the Cauayan airport, looking fresh and friendly, although he was smiling at everyone and no one in particular. I stood alone, away from the other welcomers, and somehow got him to look at me. I looked at him like I was telling him I know you or we know each other, and he stared back, smiling too, looking like he was wondering if he might have seen me before somewhere. It was one of my tricks. [caption id="attachment_183135" align="aligncenter" width="525"] The President has a long way to go, but that’s no reason for him to relax and wait for things to happen. | Photograph courtesy of BBM FB[/caption] Much would be said of the young gentleman, of his not being who he was supposed to be because he had died somewhere. Also, that he had killed someone who had called his father a dictator. Bongbong Marcos, for better or worse, was the fodder for both favorable and malicious talk. He became governor of Ilocos Norte in the mid-1980s when he took over from his aunt, Elizabeth Keon. At the same time, he wore the military uniform of the officer rank bestowed on him by his father, the President. Moving fast forward, Bongbong Marcos became a congressman and a senator, ran for vice president, and lost. Sometime after he caught Covid-19. After he had lost the vice-presidential contest and was protesting its result, he appeared on Daily Tribune’s online show, Spotlight. I remember only a little, not because he or his remarks were forgettable, but I blame my old age for not remembering. But I recall a pleasant interview, for he was relaxed and calm, and while he seemed occupied by his electoral protest, he was at the same time accepting of it. It was the Marcoses’ turn to be cheated, people said. The next presidential election had him and Leni Robredo, along with others, slugging it out. And while everyone had taken to microphones to condemn and attack him and his father, martial law and the dictatorship, he remained silent. He chose not to participate in the debates, leaving it to his supporters and fans to fight back for him. One UP professor who may have been unbiased took a liking to him, like an older woman in love for the first time, gushing over the assets of a fine, young, sexy gentleman. But that was not unexpected. Bongbong Marcos, after all, was the “crush ng bayan” from the time he was a teenager. Today, he is the President of the Philippines. I was talking with one youthful matron who possesses both beauty and wisdom and whose family was best known to be in the opposition against the Marcoses. She said that when President Rodrigo Duterte began his term, she gave him a chance to prove himself because he had been elected. As her gauge for the success of a presidency had much to do with how the stock market fared, she was disappointed because stocks dived very low to the depths. She gave RRD a failing mark. When BBM became President, she also gave him a “chance.” She told me, “I have yet to see what will happen next because he has just finished his first year, and it is too early to know how well or evil he has done. The people elected him, he is now the President, so let’s give him a chance.” The woman’s statement, I believe, more or less sums up the general feeling of the Filipino people. Here is one President perceived to be good and kind, and one who is not to be feared compared to his father or even his daring and feisty elder sister. One would hear, “Matatakot kayo pag si Imee ang presidente (You would be afraid if Imee were president),” which is people’s way of saying what they feel and think about the Marcos siblings. So, we have a kind President who has had to deal with all kinds of issues and problems: Typhoons, the pandemic, and now the rice shortage. I have always been a BBM fan (after all, he was “crush ng bayan” in our youth), and even if he had not become a statesman in the tradition of many of our top legislators, one thinks of him as a pleasant guy who plays it cool and is lovable. Now comes a wife who is perceived to be running the show. All because, like it or not, she has the educational credentials; she proved herself in the Big Apple; and as her husband himself would tell one and all, she has excellent organizational abilities. She ran the campaign, many would assume, although she much preferred to keep to the sidelines. Like it or not, Liza Marcos, the First Lady, is a potent mover in this administration. Her many worthy projects in the creative industry, health care, education, and environment, along with her brand of diplomatic maneuvering using Filipiniana fashion as a vehicle for international friendship, bode well for this administration. We got two leaders for one vote, and we are better off as a nation. To the President’s credit, he recognizes the role his wife plays in his administration, and that speaks of a man secure in his position as the head of his family. Regarding cronyism, BBM has his friends in the business sector, top men and women, titans and tycoons, czars and magnates, who accompany him on his travels abroad. One of them described their roles as similar to those of club guest relations officers — entertaining guests and clients. We are told that they talk with their counterparts on the international scene, wherever the presidential itinerary takes them. Hence, the public does not see the usual kind of cronies who are there for what they could take. These friends want to help because if this administration succeeds and the economy improves, the Filipino people, including the business sector, will live better lives. The greatest challenge to BBM, everyone perceives, is the conflict with China over the West Philippine Sea. In this regard, BBM has proved to be wise, circumspect and decisive. He has the backing of the international community and his people. We hope he will pass the test, because if he passes it we are all together the victors. BBM deserves our prayers and hopes for the best of his administration. If he succeeds, and we hope he does, we will rise as a people. The President has a long way to go, but that’s no reason for him to relax and wait for things to happen. There are some things that people feel he should handle with steel gloves, akin to his father’s style, and that is up for him to decide. A kind and gentle President may be all we need to make this nation great again, and there’s Bongbong Marcos to take on the role and fulfill the promise of a happy, progressive, and peaceful country and people. BBM is not only the best-looking President, but the kindest and, of late, the most eloquent, as he is proving himself to be. He is also the coolest. The post BBM: Our calm, kind, gentle President appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ex-ally sues Monaco’s ruler in ‘Rock Files’ scandal
A former confidant of Monaco's ruler Prince Albert II is suing the monarch in an unprecedented and potentially damaging court case triggered by the release of leaks that have rocked the usually placid Mediterranean playground for the rich and famous. Claude Palmero was for over two decades in charge of managing the palace's assets, first for Albert's father Rainier III, the husband of the US actress Grace Kelly, and then their son Prince Albert when he became ruler in 2005. But now Palmero is asking for around one million euros ($1.1 million) in damages from the palace, according to a complaint seen by AFP, over losing his job after becoming embroiled along with other former senior palace officials in unverified allegations posted in the "Dossiers du Rocher" ("Rock Files", referring to Monaco by its nickname) website from 2021. The website hosted videos, confidential email conversations and hostile articles dealing with property development in the principality. The controversy has roughed up the usually calm waters around Monaco, a tiny principality surrounded by French territory which attracts ultra-rich residents –- like tennis star Novak Djokovic and formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton -- due to its favourable tax regime. With a population of barely 40,000, Monaco neither imposes income nor wealth taxes. Among the material published by Dossiers du Rocher were email exchanges between four people close to Albert, including Palmero, accusing them of collusion in an alleged financial scam. As well as Palmero, Albert's chief of staff Laurent Anselmi also lost his job in June. 'From another age' In charge of the crown assets, Palmero was known as a Monegasque eminence grise, who was tasked with strategic issues including taking a stake in Nice's airport and buying property, as well as being a keeper of palace secrets. He lodged an appeal against his dismissal in the case before Monaco's constitutional court, known as the Supreme Tribunal, that his lawyer filed on 13 July. "No reason has ever been given to justify these decisions that come from another age and manifestly violate the principle of legality," said the complaint filed by one of his lawyers Pierre-Olivier Sur and seen by AFP. "Prince Albert II during his reign has congratulated himself in front of his subjects and the whole world that Monaco is a state of law. "Alas, there are circumstances where this principle is sadly forgotten by him and favour the violence of arbitrariness," it added. Palmero is seeking the condemnation of the prince to repair "the immense moral damage, injury and disruption to living conditions", claiming the one million euros and his reinstatement. Albert's lawyer Jean-Michel Darrois said in response: "This is a discretionary decision by the royal house as is the case with several other monarchies." But the controversy is deeply unwelcome for Albert, who has already been under intense scrutiny over his marriage to Princess Charlene, the former South African Olympic swimmer in 2011, in French and international media in recent months. Charlene only returned to Monaco in March 2022 after a months-long absence for medical treatment. Raids and infighting The case, which is set to be heard in the coming weeks, comes as judicial authorities launched a series of searches in mid-July at the four former confidants of the prince accused in the Dossiers du Rocher. All those involved deny the allegations put forward by the Dossiers du Rocher, which published their private correspondence and whose origins remain a mystery despite investigations by the French and Monaco authorities. Patrice Pastor, a Monegasque construction entrepreneur, has filed a complaint over alleged influence peddling against them. But while they suspect him of being behind the website the businessman strongly denies this. The purported motive of Pastor, whose group is worth up to 30 billion euros, is alleged by his enemies to have wanted to maintain control over lucrative real estate transactions in the principality, which Palmero and his allies sought to limit. According to official figures, 88 new apartments were sold in 2022 in Monaco, for a stratospheric total amount of 1.2 billion euros. The Pastor group is particularly involved in the Mareterra project, six hectares of luxurious buildings looking out to the Mediterranean. First reported by France's Le Monde daily, the searches targeted, in France and Monaco, the homes and offices of Claude Palmero, the law firm of Thierry Lacoste, childhood friend of the prince, Laurent Anselmi, and Didier Linotte, president of the Supreme Tribunal, who is about to leave office. Monaco's prosecutor general refused any comment. The four men do not deny being in touch with each other but insist it was to deal with regular business of Monaco. Two other men are also reported to be part of the group: former Monaco government chief Michel Roger, who is said to have formed it, was left a paraplegic after an accident in 2015. The sixth man was Jean-Francois Renucci, former head of the court of cassation in Monaco, who died in a car accident between Monaco and Nice in 2021 just as the Dossiers du Rocher scandal was erupting. The four allege that Pastor has now won the favor of the prince but this was denied by a palace aide. "This prince does not take sides," the aide, who was not named, told Le Figaro daily. The post Ex-ally sues Monaco’s ruler in ‘Rock Files’ scandal appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Masks no longer mandatory on AirAsia Phl flights
AirAsia Philippines said on Monday that wearing masks will no longer be required on all domestic flights. This is in response to the national government's decision to revoke the state of public health emergency under Presidential Proclamation 297, which was endorsed by Department Order 2023-017 of the Department of Transportation. Meanwhile, wearing masks for international flights shall remain subject to the existing health protocols in passengers’ country of destination. Only Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan have lifted the mandatory use of masks as early as Q1 2023. Despite dropping the mask policy, AirAsia PH remains committed to adhering to the highest standards of safety on all its flights. Deep cleaning AirAsia PH Country Head for Communications and Public Affairs and spokesperson Steve Dailisan said deep cleaning and aircraft sanitation will still be in effect on every flight. This way, guests will have peace of mind and confidence as air travel returns to normalcy. Dailisan stressed that there is no room for complacency in the airline business. They want their guests to feel secure when they fly with AirAsia. Although it is no longer a policy, guests and crew may still opt to wear masks whenever they deem it necessary. However, the airline also wants to reiterate that its aircraft are equipped with High-Efficiency Particulate Air filters, which filter and block 99.97 percent of airborne particles, including known bacteria and viruses. Removal of shoes In order to improve security, airport authorities have mandated that shoes be removed at the last x-ray screening in the airport. AirAsia PH is requesting that its guests be more patient about this matter. Dailisan also stressed that AirAsia will always support any activities or protocols that enhance safety and security among all industry stakeholders. This additional layer of security screening should be viewed as a deterrent to illegal activities and other threats, especially now that air travel is on the rebound. To entice more guests to revisit their travel bucket list, AirAsia PH is connecting everyone to more experiences with “FlyThru.” From 24 July to 30 September 2023, guests can book a P257 one-way base fare for domestic and international flights and P2,293 for other international destinations flying through Kuala Lumpur, such as Sydney, Perth and Melbourne, for travels from 24 July to 30 September 2023. AirAsia PH is also reminding its guests to allot an allowance of at least three hours for domestic travel and four hours for international travel. The airline is also informing its guests that NAIA Terminal 2 is AirAsia’s new domestic terminal while maintaining NAIA Terminal 3 for international flights. Meanwhile, all travel advisories and other information regarding flight schedules are regularly updated and posted via the AirAsia travel safety website. The post Masks no longer mandatory on AirAsia Phl flights appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MIAA reports NAIA passenger volume, flight activity increases
The Manila International Airport Authority has reported that in the first half of this year, passenger volume and flight activity in the Ninoy Aquino International Airport has substantially increased. From January to June 2023, MIAA recorded a combined total of 22,221,933 international and domestic passengers, or a rise of 78 percent over the same period in 2018 and only 8 percent less than pre-pandemic levels in 2019. On the other hand, the number of flight movements was recorded at 135,883, which is 100 percent of flights handled at NAIA during the first half of 2019 and an increase of 42 percent compared to the same period in 2022. Strong indication MIAA Officer-in-Charge Bryan Co said the Authority is pleased to experience these surges in statistics, a strong indication that passengers have regained the confidence to travel again. The double-digit surge in flight movements and passenger volume is enough ground for optimism that the aviation industry is steadily heading toward full recovery. Co added that when comparing the first two quarters of this year, the 11,357,156 passengers who flew from and to NAIA from April to June indicate a 5 percent growth over the 10,864,777 passenger volume in the first quarter. MIAA also saw a two percent uptick in flight movement, with 68,689 flights handled in the second quarter of this year, up from 67,194 flights handled from January to March of this year. Moreover, a close look at this year’s international and domestic figures indicates a notable boost in international passengers in June at 1,752,098, accounting for 82 percent of June 2019’s figures, compared to January’s international foot traffic which is equivalent to 74 percent of January 2019’s tally. Consistent strength Meanwhile, domestic operations in the first half of 2023 demonstrate consistent strength, outperforming the flight movement and passenger volume of the same period in 2019. The acting NAIA chief also said that comforted by the consistent growth in numbers, with airlines introducing new routes, and with new airline players coming in, the MIAA will pursue without let up “our improvement projects, especially those that would highly impact the passenger experience inside and outside of the terminals.” MIAA recently completed its Schedule and Terminal Assignment Rationalisation, or STAR, program aimed at optimising the capacity of the four NAIA terminals. The STAR program entails the reassignment of some international airlines from NAIA Terminal 1 to NAIA Terminal 3 and the moving of all Philippine Airlines international flights to NAIA Terminal 1. This strategy paved the way for confining international flight operations to only NAIA Terminals 1 and 3, while NAIA Terminal 2 became a purely domestic terminal, together with NAIA Terminal 4, which caters to turboprop operations. This also benefitted partner agencies like the Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Customs, and Bureau of Quarantine, as their NAIA Terminal 2 personnel are now re-deployed to NAIA Terminals 1 and 3, thereby ensuring full manning of their counters in the two terminals. All PAL domestic flights NAIA Terminal 2 now services all domestic flights of PAL, AirAsia Philippines, and Royal Air Philippines, accommodating some 10 million passengers per year, and up from its design capacity of 7.5 million passengers per year. The removal of immigration counters and other infrastructure mandated for international flight operations provided the needed space for unhampered passenger movement inside the terminal. Domestic AirAsia and Royal Air passengers, who account for around 10,000 passengers per day on average, now have more space at NAIA Terminal 2. This change also reduces congestion at NAIA Terminal 4 by 75 percent, providing adequate space for Cebgo, AirSwift and Sunlight Air passengers. STAR program The implementation of the STAR program has brought an increased number of passengers to NAIA Terminal 3, which is why MIAA stayed true to its commitment to the Bureau of Immigration to expand the agency’s work area in the terminal. From the 26 immigration counters at the start of 2023, MIAA has successfully added 18 more counters, placing the number to date at 44 departure immigration counters for NAIA Terminal 3. By the end of 2023, MIAA hopes to further deliver on its commitment to complete the construction of an immigration annex adjacent to BI’s existing location at the departure level. Once in place, an additional 24 counters will become available to service OFWs, senior citizens, differently or specially-abled persons, pregnant women, diplomats, and other passengers needing special handling. The post MIAA reports NAIA passenger volume, flight activity increases appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz Group takes control of AirAsia Philippines
After acquiring the operations of the Cebu airport, the Aboitiz Group has expanded to the airline business by becoming the majority owner of low-cost carrier AirAsia Philippines......»»
Budget airline but with better services
Passengers of AirAsia Philippines can expect better services from low-cost air carrier sets to add more routes, increase the frequency and utilize wide-body aircraft following its recent transfer to a bigger terminal. AirAsia Philippines started welcoming passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 last week. It will operate all its domestic flights to and from the Centennial terminal — offering guests bigger space, better amenities, and a more comfortable travel experience. “We keep saying that this is a winning move for our guests because they deserve only the best from us. Moving to Terminal 2 will allow us to add more routes, increase the frequency and utilize wide-body aircraft soon to improve connectivity and enhance customer experience,” AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla said. Isla also pointed out that AirAsia Philippines’ On-Time Performance, or OTP the past months reached an average of around 80 to 85 percent. 100% on some days “We even reach a high of 100 percent on some days when there are no factors causing disruptions such as weather or lightning red alerts, air traffic congestion, and non-scheduled maintenance,” he added. For Civil Aeronautics Board executive director Carmelo Arcilla, “industry stakeholders and government to continue to engage to ensure that passengers ultimately win.” “We shall work closely with the industry towards full and strict adherence to the Air Passenger Bill of Rights as we endeavor to go above and beyond in the service of the Filipino people,” Arcilla said. AirAsia Philippines has been allocated 20 check-in counters for guests entering the south wing of the terminal. At Terminal 2, AirAsia Philippines passengers can utilize the seven operational aero bridges in the south wing and four remote parking bays during high traffic or peak hours. AirAsia operates more than 100 domestic flights daily and aims to increase routes and frequency during winter to provide guests with affordable flights. The post Budget airline but with better services appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
AirAsia’s Tony Fernandes optimistic about tourism
Capital A chief executive officer Tan Sri Tony Fernandes is prepared to hasten the tourism industry’s recovery and attract more foreign investments to the Philippines. The AirAsia owner said more customers are switching from more expensive to less expensive products and doing shorter trips as a result of flying across the Pacific. In the Philippines, connectivity has always been essential for meeting domestic requirements and facilitating travel within the region. Through AirAsia’s centers in Manila and Cebu, the Philippines initially developed linkages with a number of Asian nations, including Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan and Malaysia. Improve connectivity In order to draw more tourists to places like Cebu, Bacolod and Palawan, there are plans to improve connectivity, according to Fernandes. He added that they’re seeing a huge pent-up demand for travel, which gives him a huge amount of confidence. He thinks that their strength is that they are also very strong in secondary and tertiary cities and in providing connectivity, so that is adding growth. To sustain the pent-up demand for travel, AirAsia has launched another round of Piso Sale, which is available for booking until June 18 for domestic flights to cities like Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Tacloban, Puerto Princesa and Bacolod, as well as flights abroad to cities like Hong Kong, Macao, Seoul, Taipei, Guangzhou and Shenzhen for travel from 1 September 2023, to 8 October 2024. Fernandes asserted that AirAsia flights are still reasonably priced in spite of market dynamics and other contributing factors. He added that the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline would keep offering a competitive rate while generating more traffic and opening up additional destinations. He shared that the Philippines can attract 9 million tourists a year, comparing it to Thailand, another popular destination. The establishment of more locations with airport infrastructure and other necessary infrastructure to get to the airport, however, is something that the public and private sectors could support. The World’s Best Low-Cost Airline would keep offering a competitive rate while generating more traffic and opening up additional destinations. To better serve its guests and provide more passenger convenience, the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline reminds its guests that beginning 1 July 2023, all AirAsia domestic flights will depart from and arrive at NAIA Terminal 2. All international flights, on the other hand, will continue to operate at NAIA Terminal 3 until further notice. The post AirAsia’s Tony Fernandes optimistic about tourism appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Warm as the sun’: Pangulasian illuminated
Among the four island resorts under the El Nido Resorts umbrella, Pangulasian stands out for its luxury concept. This property in Bacuit Bay shares the resort group’s ecological vein, but each has its own particular lure. Apulit Island in Taytay is deemed the “adventure” destination in an idyllic setting; Miniloc in El Nido is the “discovery” place for activity-filled holidays; and Lagen Island is the “sanctuary,” made distinct for its “lush, four-hectare forest and calm, shallow lagoon.” While travelers may opt for their own kind of vacations — and at a time when custom travel itineraries are the rage — the enduring appeal of island getaways will always be in most bucket lists. The Philippines offers a mélange of island resorts, but in the realm of true luxury, just a handful may be considered — among them, Pangulasian. El Nido Resorts’ Mags Bautista, senior marketing and communications manager, tells Daily Tribune more about this island destination. [caption id="attachment_140326" align="aligncenter" width="525"] BEDROOM suite.[/caption] Daily Tribune (DT): What makes Pangulasian distinct among other island resorts? Mags Bautista (MB): Pangulasian Island delivers luxury Filipino hospitality designed to match the stunning natural beauty of its setting in the Managed Resource Protected Area of El Nido-Taytay. It brings together sustainable practices and world-class comfort to offer naturally immersive experiences with its 750-meter stretch of white-sand beach, a house reef teeming with marine life, and a spectacular view of the sunrise and sunset — it definitely stays true to its local moniker as the “Island of the Sun.” For accommodations, it has a total of 42 contemporary Filipino villas built sustainably with cutting-edge “green” design. [caption id="attachment_140325" align="aligncenter" width="525"] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF REBY TRINIDAD | FROLICKING along the 750-meter white sand at Pangulasian.[/caption] PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF REBY TRINIDAD | FROLICKING along the 750-meter white sand at Pangulasian. DT: Would you say Pangulasian is the most luxurious resort in the Philippines? Why? MB: No. While there are other resorts that have superior facilities and amenities, Pangulasian takes pride in its excellent customer relations. Guests always come back to the resort because of the hospitality of the staff that, you could say, is “warm as the sun.” The workforce brings in unparalleled efforts and dedication to ensure that guests have a truly memorable and enjoyable stay. DT: What can you say about the amenities, facilities of Pangulasian? Any special services given to guests — personal butler, dine by the beach, room service? MB: Although the resort does not have butler service, it offers room service from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. The resort also offers private lunches outside Pangulasian and private dinners within the resort. Happy hour at the pool bar from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. [caption id="attachment_140327" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Pangulasian’s team takes extra care to provide a truly meaningful guest experience.[/caption] DT: What makes the food and beverage at Pangulasian special? MB: Staying true to our commitment to sustainability, we source many of our products locally, importing internationally only to provide the occasional familiar option for international guests who would like a bit of a taste of home. We commit to support local suppliers with an emphasis on sustainable development. The resort offers unique drinks such as our signature thirst-quenching Tropical Spice, blended Watermelon, and Mango Ginger drink. Guests will also enjoy our very own Pangulasian Sunrise made with hand-squeezed dalandan juice paired with premium tequila. [caption id="attachment_140330" align="aligncenter" width="525"] STEAK with asparagus and potato slices.[/caption] DT: Are there any dishes that are a must-try for guests? MB: Absolutely! Our head chef recommends the following set of dishes: Starting with Ensaladang Talong soup; Tomato and Shrimp for the main course; US Angus Rib eye with Pangulasian Bistek sauce; and Baguna Calamansi pie for the dessert. DT: How about the beach and sports/water activities? Some say the waters are better for activities like snorkeling rather than swimming. Would you agree? MB: Though nestled in the protected marine seascape of El Nido, guests of Pangulasian can enjoy various water activities. Through the regular island-hopping tours, guests can engage in kayaking, snorkeling and swimming activities all across Bacuit Bay to better appreciate the beauty of El Nido. The crystal-clear waters with its sustainably managed house reefs make El Nido a good spot for snorkeling and diving. We also offer more immersive activities like the mangrove cruise in Aberawan, bottom fishing with the local fishermen, and the hiking trail through the forest of Pangulasian. DT: What do most guests like to do at the resort? MB: Guests, mostly foreigners, are fascinated by El Nido’s big and small lagoons, its pristine beaches with crystal clear waters, and of course, its stunning limestone rock formations. As such, Pangulasian guests always look forward to hop on the daily complimentary island tours and join the morning snorkeling to see the coral reefs and spot some black-tip reef sharks. DT: How does one get to Pangulasian? What does the resort do to make guests feel relaxed and comfortable getting there? MB: Airswift offers daily flights from Manila to El Nido, Palawan. Travel time is approximately one hour long. Guests are welcomed by one of Pangulasian’s tour guides upon arrival at the airport. They are then transported to the Jetty Lounge for refreshments and a bathroom break. After which, a 30-minute boat ride takes guests across the Bacuit Bay to Pangulasian Island Resort. DT: What makes a stay worth the splurge for guests of the resort? MB: As what most people would say, “Money can’t buy happiness,” but here in Pangulasian, the island team takes extra care to provide a truly meaningful guest experience — all the way from their arrival at Lio airport, to their festive welcome at the resort, through guided tours and activities, and up until we bring them back to the airport for their departure. With its spacious villas, its local and international selection of dishes, and island tours and activities, the team strives to deliver on the promise of excellent service and hospitality. The post ‘Warm as the sun’: Pangulasian illuminated appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MIAA ensures smooth transitions
As Gulf Air, Thai Airways, Jeju Air, and Ethiopian Airlines seamlessly relocated to their new home at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 last Thursday, the Manila International Airport Authority reported on Friday that the airport authority continues to make significant progress with its Schedule and Terminal Assignment Rationalization program. Gulf Air flights GF155/GF154 (Manila-Bahrain-Manila), Thai Airways’ Manila-Bangkok-Manila flights TG621/TG620 and TG625/TG624, Jeju Air flights 7C2306/7C2305 (Manila-Incheon-Manila), as well as Ethiopian Airlines’ flights ET644/Et645 (Addis Ababa-Manila-Addis Ababa via Hong Kong) will now operate in NAIA Terminal 3 to and from Manila. MIAA OIC Bryan Co said that the transition of these carriers was seamless, just as it had been in previous phases of their STAR program. This is a result of their continuous coordination with airlines and ground handlers, their massive information drives to minimize instances of misrouted passengers, and the proactive measures they have already put in place to ensure that no passenger will be left behind. Co added that they will continue to provide free shuttles for a period of two months to ferry those passengers who may inadvertently head to the old terminal assignments of these flights. They also made certain that airline ground handlers are present at the departure gates to direct passengers to the shuttle vehicles that will transport them to NAIA Terminal 3. The STAR program is currently in its final stages, with the transfer of all international flights of Philippine Airlines to NAIA Terminal 1 scheduled for June 16 and the subsequent transfer of all domestic flights of Philippine Airlines, AirAsia, and Royal Air Philippines to NAIA Terminal 2, along with Sunlight Air’s relocation to NAIA Terminal 4, scheduled for 1 July. Upon completion of the STAR program, NAIA Terminal 2 will be home to all domestic operations of PAL, Philippine AirAsia, and Royal Air Philippines. Meanwhile, Cebu Pacific’s domestic operations will continue to operate to and from NAIA Terminals 3 and 4, while MIAA works on further expanding the capacity of NAIA Terminal 2. With the initial step in December last year, when Philippine Airlines flights to and from the United States, Canada, the Middle East, and Bali were moved to Terminal 1, the MIAA was afforded the opportunity to improve the efficiency of runway use and, at the same time, rationalize utilization of terminal spaces so it could offer more amenities to its increasing passenger traffic. Co also said that it is indeed a daunting task to put into action a major decision like this considering the magnitude of operational challenges before us. They also thank all their stakeholders for joining hands with then to bring this STAR program to fruition. The post MIAA ensures smooth transitions appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Radar system maintenance successful — CAAP
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines on Wednesday reported that the corrective maintenance of the country’s radar system on Wednesday was “successful” with no flight disruptions during the activity scheduled from 2 a.m. to 4 a.m. It disclosed that the corrective maintenance at the Philippine Air Traffic Management Center, which seeks to replace the uninterruptible power supply and upgrade the air traffic management system, was finished in an hour and 13 minutes. CAAP also said that no disruptions were reported but it can be recalled that Clark International Airport earlier said four regional flights were affected by the scheduled maintenance while AirAsia Philippines announced the cancellation of six domestic flights and the retiming of two flights set on 17 May. The activity had no impact on flight operations at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and normal operations resumed at 3:20 a.m. Manila’s Runway 13/31, which enables other means of communication between pilots and the Control Tower, was utilized during the maintenance activity. The Philippine Airlines reported that all its scheduled flights via Manila were able to land and depart during the system maintenance. Meanwhile, CAAP said continuous monitoring and finetuning of the Communications Navigation Surveillance Systems and Air Navigation Service are being undertaken to ensure the unimpeded operations of airports throughout the country. “CAAP extends its appreciation for the understanding and cooperation of various aviation stakeholders, highlighting the importance of seamless air traffic management in compliance to the highest standards of safety and efficiency,” it said. The post Radar system maintenance successful — CAAP appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Pampanga’s Best Western Plus redesigns for MICE tourism
The hotel industry shared the biggest burden from the lockdowns brought on by the two-year pandemic. This, however, forced hotel owners to redesign their facilities to cater to customers besides tourists. To appeal to more businesspeople, the four-star Best Western Plus hotel in Pampanga is upgrading into a lifestyle center and food destination. “The opening of the new wing of the Best Western Plus hotel came at the right time. We were building it and deciding almost every day as the pandemic unfolded. We had to decide, follow through and look past the pandemic,” Jack Uy, chairman and chief executive officer of Savers Group Holdings, Inc. told the Daily Tribune. Uy said the hotel is still being renovated to add retail shops after welcoming its first guests in March at the new wing with 186 rooms along MacArthur Highway, Balibago, Angeles City, Pampanga. [caption id="attachment_131550" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Presidential Suite.[/caption] He said the hotel has expanded through its lifestyle center, which occupies an entire building floor and features modern, luxurious and globally branded appliances and furniture for home, office and industrial. These cater to customer segments consisting of businesspeople and those in the middle to upper socioeconomic classes with more sophisticated tastes and combine business and leisure. “We call this our lifestyle center. People now shop because they build a lifestyle more than fulfilling a need. So, they’re not looking for just one or two items but everything that matches their lifestyles, from the appliance to the furniture,” Uy said. [caption id="attachment_131551" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Conference Room.[/caption] Uy said most of their guests, or 70 percent, are corporate executives and staff from local and multinational firms who gather for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibits tourism. “Unlike other provinces, Pampanga does not have a lot of natural attractions like the beaches in Boracay or Palawan. That’s why over half of our visitors check in because of company meetings, events and team-building activities. It helps that we’re located near the airport and Clark Freeport Zone, an economic zone.” Property consultancy Colliers Philippines said Pampanga housed 36 percent of all offices in the country’s provinces. Information technology and business process outsourcing firms expanded outside Metro Manila in the first quarter of this year. This industry is expected to grow further by eight percent to 10 percent each year, as the Philippines has emerged as the world’s top IT-BPO destination, according to US-based Nexford University. [caption id="attachment_131552" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Lobby.[/caption] Last year, Colliers reported the Philippine Economic Zone Authority identified 42 ecozones in Central Luzon, including Pampanga, as the location for biotech centers, defense industrial complexes, halal and food production hubs, and jewelry parks, among others. The move is part of the government’s Philippine Development Plan 2023 to 2028. The hotel also features several restaurants serving international cuisines: Mexican at Cactus Jack Smokehouse, Japanese at Namari, and Hong Kong at Legend. “Most people also visit Pampanga as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines. But we want our local and foreign guests to have as diverse experiences as possible,” Uy said. The post Pampanga’s Best Western Plus redesigns for MICE tourism appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CAAP expects minimal flight disruptions
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines on Wednesday stressed that it expects a small number of flights to be affected by the temporary airspace shutdown during the corrective maintenance on the Air Traffic Management Center on 17 May 2023 from 2 to 4 a.m. Deputy director general for Operations Captain Edgardo G. Diaz said that the maintenance activity is necessary to replace the defective Uninterruptible Power Supply and reconfigure the Air Traffic Management System A/B power supply. Earlier, AirAsia Philippines has already announced that 12 of its flights have been retimed on 16 May and two flights on 17 May, while six domestic flights are being canceled on 17 May. The CAAP has already coordinated with and advised concerned stakeholders such as air carriers and airport operators, the Manila International Airport Authority, Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corp and GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation in advance regarding the intended corrective maintenance activity. In addition, corresponding Notices to Airmen were duly promulgated to inform all stakeholders. The ATMC power supply upgrade will involve the installation of a bypass panel to provide seamless ATM operations and the reconfiguration of the existing power distribution panel to segregate ATM systems A (voice) and B (data). This will result in the two UPS serving as each other’s independent backup in case one power supply encounters a problem. The ATMC houses the Communications, Navigation, Surveillance, and Air Traffic Management system, which manages air traffic within the Philippine Flight Information Region. The CAAP assured the public that the corrective maintenance activity will be conducted safely and that all necessary measures will be taken to minimize the impact on air traffic. The post CAAP expects minimal flight disruptions appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CAAP: Minimal flight disruptions during 17 May maintenance break
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines reminded the public on Wednesday that the Air Traffic Management Center will be performing corrective maintenance on 17 May 2023, from 2 a.m to 4 a.m., which will require the shutdown of Philippine airspace. Despite the temporary shutdown, the CAAP it anticipates that only a small number of scheduled flights at two international gateways and many CAAP-operated airports will be affected. According to GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation officials, no flights will be affected at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport. Meanwhile, at the Clark International Airport, only one flight will be affected. per a source from the Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corporation, operator of Clark International Airport. CAAP said AirAsia Philippines has already announced that 12 of its flights have been retimed on 16 May and two flights on 17 May, while six domestic flights are being canceled on 17 May. Deputy Director General for Operations Captain Edgardo G. Diaz said the temporary airspace closure is due to the corrective maintenance activity on the ATMC, which is necessary to replace the defective Uninterruptible Power Supply and reconfigure the Air Traffic Management System A/B power supply. The CAAP has already coordinated with and advised concerned stakeholders such as air carriers and airport operators, the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corp (LIPAD), and GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (GMCAC) in advance regarding the intended corrective maintenance activity. In addition, corresponding Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) were duly promulgated to inform all stakeholders. The ATMC power supply upgrade will involve the installation of a bypass panel to provide seamless ATM operations and the reconfiguration of the existing power distribution panel to segregate ATM systems A (voice) and B (data). This will result in the two UPS serving as each other's independent backup in case one power supply encounters a problem. The ATMC houses the Communications, Navigation, Surveillance, and Air Traffic Management system, which manages air traffic within the Philippine Flight Information Region. The post CAAP: Minimal flight disruptions during 17 May maintenance break appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Airlines ready for NAIA T2 shakeup
Flag carrier Philippine Airlines and low-cost operator AirAsia Philippines have started preparing for the transfer of their domestic flights to Terminal 2 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport......»»
Philippines urged to hasten airport upgrades
Malaysia’s largest airline AirAsia hopes that the Philippine government can expedite airport upgrades to increase the country’s flight volume and bolster tourism......»»
'ALAMIN: Kanseladong flights sa hagupit ni ‘Karding’
MANILA, Philippines- Inanunsyo ng airport authorities ang kanselasyon ng ilang flights ngayong Lunes, Setyembre 26, 2022, dahil sa masamang panahon. Ayon sa Manila International Airport Authority, kanselado ang sumusunod na flights: AirAsia Philippines (Z2) Z2 689/690 Manila-Cagayan-Manila Z2 772 Cebu-Manila Z2 616 Davao-Manila Philippine Airlines (PR) PR 510 Singapore-Manila PR 538 Denpasar-Manila PR 2808 Davao-Manila […] The post #ALAMIN: Kanseladong flights sa hagupit ni ‘Karding’ appeared first on REMATE ONLINE......»»
Don’t take chances, positive passengers told
The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) on Tuesday appealed to passengers who have tested positive not to get to their flights and take chances to stem the spread of the coronavirus. MIAA general manager Ed Monreal made the appeal after 138 individuals were intercepted at different security and airline checkpoints of Ninoy Aquino International Airport […] The post Don’t take chances, positive passengers told appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»