Philippine carrier Cebu Pacific is increasing its flight frequencies between Sydney and Manila, giving PCOs plenty of low-cost options for travel to the islands and elsewhere in Asia.
“There aren’t just low fares between Sydney and Manila, but onward destinations once landing, connecting people to unique hotspots,” says Candice Iyog, Vice President for Marketing and Distribution.
Cebu has been operating daily services (up from five a week) providing more flexibility for people travelling over the peak summer period.
“We anticipate that the uptake of the additional flights will be from Australians seeking low-cost escapes and from expat travellers over the Christmas-New Year period,” says Candice.
But the deals will interest MICE travellers, too, the airline believes. “PCOs represent an interesting segment and are important to us, as we want the Philippines to be considered for business events, conferences, incentives and famils.”
The island delights of the Philippines on offer at competitive prices means PCOs and event organisers can create exciting itineraries, working to budgets, she adds. “Our low fares all-year round mean more can be invested at the destination rather than on the journey, and the Philippines is a great place, with picturesque beaches, fully equipped resorts and a huge array of activities to choose from.”
Cebu Pacific’s major hub in Manila is a nine-hour direct flight from Sydney, and Australia represents one of its most important markets.
Figures from the Australian Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics indicate that during first quarter of 2017, Cebu Pacific dominated the Sydney-Manila market with a 42% market share on the route, the highest among the three carriers covering it.
Moreover events organisers can take advantage of same-terminal connection points to great island destinations in the Western Pacific including Palawan, Boracay and Cebu. “It’s simple, easy and low cost to build an impressive event itinerary across multiple destinations in the islands.”
The increase in Manila-Sydney flights coincides with a move to increase domestic frequencies at the same time, improving accessibility for travellers outside of the Manila metropolitan area, Candice says. The network now comprises 27 international and 37 domestic destinations.
However, one of the most attractive aspects, the airline’s representatives observe, is undoubtedly the low-cost fares. For example to kick off the recent new arrangements, Manila-Sydney daily fares started from $280 one-way.
“There are many great reasons to fly with Cebu Pacific, but our fares help put us ahead of the competition.”
To enhance the onboard experience the airline Pacific has refreshed its inflight menu. Domestic and international passengers now get a fresh selection of pre-ordered meals under three categories: western fusion, Filipino and Asian.
The latest seat sales can be found on Cebu Pacific’s official Twitter (@CebuPacificAir) and Facebook pages. For bookings and inquiries, visit www.cebupacificair.com or call the reservation hotline at +612 9119 2956.
