Philippine Airlines (PAL) resumed flights between Clark and Siargao on Tuesday as part of its efforts to expand its domestic network outside of Central Luzon.
The Department of Tourism Region 3, Clark LIPAD (Luzon International Premier Airport Development Corporation), PAL, and other aviation stakeholder groups welcomed the first service of PR2875 at Clark International Airport with a water cannon salute and cake-cutting ceremony.
"This returning service is something we are proud of. Residents and visitors in Central and Northern Luzon will find our three-weekly service convenient, as it eliminates the need to travel by land to Metro Manila to reach Siargao. Our flights from Clark will allow islanders to go to other regions of the nation," PAL Express President Rabbi Vincent Ang said.
"We value the cooperation of all parties involved in the ceaseless efforts to restore this aviation service to the stunning island of Siargao. Our profound appreciation to the Department of Tourism, CDC, CIAC, CAAP, CLARK LIPAD, and all other tourism organizations. With the combined efforts of all personnel, we have successfully brought this service back to life," the PALEX Chief added.
"As we get closer to the holidays, when many of us are excited to see new places and reconnect with loved ones, the opening of the Philippine Airlines route from Clark to Siargao is ideal. It's a great idea to spend the holidays near the beach," said Noel Manankil, president and CEO of LIPAD Corp., the group that runs Clark International Airport. "And with CRK's recent victory as TDM Travel Trade International Airport of the Year, PAL and your passengers can be guaranteed of the airport's first-rate service, cutting-edge amenities, and dedication to making travel easier and more enjoyable for everybody. We appreciate you putting us in charge of this new route," he added.
Siargao is a popular destination for water enthusiasts, renowned as the nation's surfing mecca due to its world-class waves. It has become a distinctive tropical retreat due to its stunning scenery, crystal-clear seas, and relaxed atmosphere.
On its three weekly flights between Clark and Siargao, PAL uses a De Havilland Dash 8-400 Next Generation aircraft, which has 86 seats. The carrier promises to satisfy passengers throughout their journey with its signature sincere Filipino service.
Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, the three-weekly service runs via PR2875 Clark-Siargao, which departs Clark at 11:00 a.m. and arrives in Siargao at 1:05 p.m., and PR2876 Siargao-Clark, which departs Siargao at 1:35 p.m. and arrives in Clark at 3:40 p.m.
With daily flights to Cebu, four weekly flights each to Basco and Busuanga (Coron), and three weekly flights to Boracay (Caticlan), Siargao rejoins the flag carrier's developing hub at Clark International Airport. The service adds to PAL's current twice-daily flights from Manila and Cebu to Siargao, bringing the total number of weekly flights to Siargao to 31.