First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos took pride in being part of the unveiling of flag carrier Philippine Airlines’ Airbus A350-1000 on Saturday at Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

“Celebrating 85 years of Philippine Airlines was truly special. Seeing the unveiling of the Airbus A350-1000 filled us with pride — not just for PAL, but for our country,” the First Lady said on her official Instagram account.

She said that PAL, being the first airline in Southeast Asia and the 10th in the world to use the aircraft, speaks volumes about how far we’ve come and where we’re headed.

“It was a beautiful evening that honored legacy, progress, and the journeys that continue to connect Filipinos to the world — and to one another,” she added.

During the event, dubbed “Legacy in Flight: Celebrating 85 Years of Philippine Airlines (PAL) and the Unveiling of the A350-1000,” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recognized the flag carrier’s legacy built on resilience, service, and dedication to connecting Filipinos with the world.

He said PAL has remained a steady presence in the country’s national story through changing times and growing challenges.

PAL is Asia’s first commercial airline, owning the distinction of being the first Asian airline to cross the Pacific Ocean (1946) and fly to Europe (1947).

The arrival of the Airbus A350-1000 in Philippine Airlines’ fleet — one of the most modern widebody aircraft built for long-haul flights — highlights the need to keep pace with a rapidly evolving aviation industry, Marcos said.

The President said that since its founding in 1941, the country’s only full-service four-star airline has consistently provided dependable, high-quality service to both Filipino and international travelers.

The flag carrier has also helped showcase the Philippines’ natural beauty and cultural richness, and more importantly, carried with it the Filipino warmth and hospitality, he said.

He described PAL’s newly released safety video as engaging, creative, and distinctly Filipino for showcasing the beauty of the country’s landscapes, while weaving in the familiar intrigue and drama of a Filipino telenovela.