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holiday season

#GSafeTayo: Stay secure, safe and scam-free during the holidays — a reminder from GCash

by Contributor January 7, 2026

written by Contributor

As holiday shopping surges nationwide, the country’s leading finance super app GCash encourages Filipinos to enjoy the season with peace of mind. Through its #GSafeTayo campaign, GCash is reminding users to take simple precautions to keep transactions safe and secure, so our celebrations remain merry, not messy.

“Christmas shopping should be joyful and worry-free. GCash is closely working with our partners from DICT in reinforcing its Oplan Paskong Sigurado campaign,” said Miguel Geronilla, Chief Security Information Officer at GCash.

“Beyond a campaign, it’s a unified call to action against cybercrimes. The message is clear — Mag-Ingat, Mag-Report, Mag-Diwang during the holidays. We encourage everyone to stay alert, promptly report suspicious activities, maximize free or affordable available protective features, and transact only through trusted channels,” he added.

GCash urges users to secure their accounts this holiday season, reminding the public that renting or lending personal GCash accounts is illegal under the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA).

Safeguarding digital transactions during the holidays
This reminder comes as GCash relentlessly and aggressively aims to continue protecting the hard-earned money of millions of Filipinos. From January to November 2025, more than 13,000 malicious posts were taken down, 14,000 fake social media accounts were removed, and over 300 phishing links were blocked.

In the same period, more than 466 million hacking attempts and 130,000 account hackers were stopped immediately. These efforts show how protection is continuously working behind the scenes, giving users greater confidence as they shop and celebrate.

During the holiday season, DICT and law enforcement groups call the public to stay vigilant against scams, including fake sellers, phishing messages with links designed to steal login credentials, video calls impersonating official company representatives, and smishing texts requesting personal information or one-time passwords.Strengthening reporting and response mechanisms
DICT asks Filipinos to report suspicious activity via the 1326 hotline, which provides multi-channel reporting through calls, online forms, and messaging apps. The DICT hotline also offers follow-up feedback on cases to the complainant, and links reports to a centralized government database for faster action, or through the eGovPH mobile application using its eReport feature for convenient digital submissions.

Supporting these efforts, GCash also reminds users to verify sellers, review feedback, avoid sharing sensitive information outside official channels, and always transact through the official GCash app or verified GCash channels.

GCash urges users to download the GCash app only from official platforms, including Google Play Store for Android devices, Apple App Store for iPhone and iPad, and Huawei AppGallery for Huawei devices. Users are advised to avoid downloading the app from third-party sites, APK links, or messages via SMS or email, which may contain malware. The developer should be listed as Mynt – Globe Fintech Innovations, and users can also visit gcash.com for direct app links.

Further, GCash also reminds users that it will never ask for MPINs, OTPs, or personal details and will not send links via SMS, email, or chat apps. Sharing this information can give scammers access to accounts. Additionally, renting, lending, or allowing others to use your personal GCash account is illegal under RA 12010 Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), and may expose users to criminal liability, including involvement in money muling and other fraudulent activities.

GCash reminds Filipinos to stay #GSafeTayo this holiday season by avoiding fake apps and phishing links and downloading the app only from official app stores.

These consumer-education efforts are reinforced by the collaboration of GCash with government agencies, including the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), and the National Privacy Commission (NPC). Together, these institutions coordinate to strengthen cybercrime monitoring, raise public awareness, and respond swiftly to suspicious activity.

Providing additional safeguards for online purchases
To further support users, GCash offers Online Shopping Protect, which can be added when paying through GCash Pay Online. For a small premium, it provides coverage of up to ₱20,000 for purchases that are not delivered, arrive defective, differ from what was described, are stolen, or are damaged in transit. This option gives shoppers added assurance that their money is safeguarded if something goes wrong with an online order.

Users who encounter unusual or suspicious transactions are encouraged to report concerns through the GCash Help Center or the in‑app assistance tool. GCash reminds everyone that it does not send unsolicited messages to resolve account issues.

With stronger awareness, tighter surveillance, and a unified response from both the private and public sectors, GCash believes Filipinos can fully enjoy the season — merry and worry‑free. For more information, visit https://www.gcash.com

January 7, 2026 0 comments

Opinion

Christmas is for breadwinners, too

by Contributor December 22, 2025

written by Contributor

EVERY Christmas, we talk about children, families, and celebrations. We talk about gifts, lights, reunions, and traditions. But there is a group of people whose Christmas often goes unnoticed, quietly sacrificed, and rarely celebrated. They are the breadwinners.

The breadwinner is the one who carries Christmas on their shoulders. They are the first to wake up and the last to sleep. They are the ones calculating expenses while others plan celebrations. They are the ones thinking of groceries, school fees, bills, and gifts before thinking of themselves. For many Filipinos, Christmas is not a break. It is an added responsibility.

In a culture that values family deeply, being a breadwinner is often worn as a badge of honor. We praise their strength, admire their sacrifices, and call them heroes. But we rarely ask how they are truly doing when the holidays arrive.

As December approaches, breadwinners feel a different kind of pressure. While the season promises joy, they feel the weight of expectation. There is the expectation to provide a complete meal, to buy new clothes, to give gifts, and to keep traditions alive. There is also the unspoken rule that they must do all of this without complaint.

Many breadwinners smile through the season, even when their hearts are tired. They attend Christmas gatherings while mentally computing expenses. They laugh at jokes while wondering how much debt January will bring. They receive thanks from their families but rarely receive rest.

This is the invisible labor of love that defines so many Filipino homes.

For breadwinners, Christmas often means compromise. It means choosing practicality over desire. It means adjusting expectations and finding joy in simpler ways. Some skip buying new clothes for themselves so their children can have something new to wear. Some take extra shifts, accept side jobs, or delay rest until after the holidays.

Others carry guilt. Guilt for not giving enough. Guilt for comparing their efforts to what they see online or in malls. Guilt for feeling tired during a season that demands happiness.

But exhaustion does not mean ingratitude. It means they have been giving for too long without pause.

Christmas gatherings can feel overwhelming for breadwinners. Conversations often revolve around food, gifts, and plans. Questions like “Ano handa niyo?” or “Anong regalo mo?” may seem harmless, but they can sting. They remind breadwinners of what they could not afford.

Sometimes, breadwinners attend celebrations not to enjoy them, but to meet expectations. They show up for family, not for themselves. They make sure everyone is comfortable, fed, and happy, even if it costs them their peace.

This is why Christmas can feel heavy. Not because breadwinners do not love their families, but because love often demands more than they can give.

We often say Christmas is for children. That it is for families. That it is for togetherness. But Christmas should also be for breadwinners.

They deserve moments of rest. They deserve appreciation that goes beyond words. They deserve to be seen not just as providers, but as people with emotions, limits, and needs.

A simple thank you, a sincere hug, or an offer to share the load can mean more than any expensive gift. Sometimes, what breadwinners need most is not another obligation, but understanding.

Perhaps we need to change how we measure a successful Christmas. It should not be based on how much was spent or how grand the celebration was. It should be measured by how supported each family member feels.

When we make space for breadwinners to breathe, we create a kinder holiday. When we reduce pressure instead of adding to it, we honor the true spirit of the season.

Christmas does not need to be perfect. It needs to be humane.

Our homes, conversations, and traditions should speak gratitude for breadwinners. They should remind us that strength should not be exploited, and sacrifice should not be taken for granted.

If you know a breadwinner this Christmas, check on them. Ask how they are doing. Offer help if you can. Lower expectations when needed. Let them rest without guilt.

And if you are a breadwinner reading this, know this. Christmas is for you, too. You are allowed to rest. You are allowed to enjoy the season in your own quiet way. You are allowed to say no. Your worth is not measured by what you provide, but by who you are.

Christmas is not only about giving. It is also about allowing ourselves to receive.

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Kethelle I. Sajonia is a college instructor at the University of Southeastern Philippines, Mintal Campus. She is currently in the final phase of her Doctor of Communication degree at the University of the Philippines. Her research interests include inclusivity, education, communication, and social development. She actively engages in scholarly research and community-based initiatives that advocate for inclusive and transformative communication practices.

December 22, 2025 0 comments

Community

Mawab lights up for Christmas, kicks off holiday season

by Rhoda Grace Saron December 18, 2025

written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE MUNICIPALITY of Mawab officially welcomed the Christmas season with the ceremonial lighting of its Christmas decorations, transforming the town center into a festive display of lights, colors, and holiday cheer.

Residents, families, and local officials gathered at the municipal grounds to witness the lighting ceremony, which marked the start of the municipality’s Christmas and year-end celebrations. Illuminated Christmas trees, decorative arches, and colorful light installations lit up public spaces, drawing smiles from children and adults alike.

Mayor Myrill Apit said the Christmas lighting is a reminder of hope and unity among Mawabeños.

“Christmas is a time for hope, gratitude, and togetherness. As we light up our municipality, we also light up the spirit of unity and compassion in our community,” Apit said.

She added that the local government aims to create a joyful and welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors while encouraging everyone to celebrate the season with peace and generosity.

The municipal government also announced that the Christmas decorations will remain on display throughout the holiday season, as Mawab prepares a series of activities to celebrate Christmas and welcome the New Year.

December 18, 2025 0 comments

Community Lifestyle

SM Lanang Unwraps a Joyful Christmas

by Contributor December 2, 2025

written by Contributor

A joyful holiday arrives in a dazzling tableau of lights and stylish ribbons as SM Lanang ushers the yuletide season with its grand Christmas tree.

A towering 55-foot Christmas tree bedazzles shoppers and guests with over 2,000 ornaments and illuminations, haloed by 13 cascading evergreens rising in tiered splendor – four of which gracefully twirls to add movement and magic.

The massive tree at the heart of the mall is hugged by a giant ribbon and surrounded by smaller trees that are decked with delicate ribonettes, berries, cypress, and pinecones. Adding whimsy and joy to the overall mall holiday scene are the 14 lighted, floating Christmas trees.

Experience the Joyful Rhythms and Harmonies

Joyful harmonies and rhythms fill the air at SM Lanang this season as the mall features local artists in piano and choral performances on select weekends in December.

Besties of Joy

SM Lanang continues its tradition of spreading the holiday cheer through the BESTIES OF JOY, a campaign that evolved from SM’s beloved Bears of Joy initiative.

For only P330, shoppers get to keep one plush toy while the other is donated to a child in need when they purchase a Bestie of Joy from October 25 to December 25.

This year’s plush toy collection features four adorable bunnies embodying the message that meaningful gifts aren’t always wrapped — they’re shared through kindness, connection and friendship.

Hannie, in soft white, is gentle and grateful — reminding us to appreciate life’s little blessings. Rumi, dressed in dreamy lilac, sparks imagination and creativity, encouraging everyone to dream and explore. Tala, glowing in cheerful yellow, is the sunshine of friendship, spreading laughter and love wherever she goes. And Nana, in warm red, is the heart of kindness, always ready with a comforting hug and a helping paw.

Shop for Gifts

Find the perfect gifts to give your friends, family, and loved ones while also supporting local businesses this Christmas season through SM Lanang’s Christmas Bazaar at The Atrium. To experience the joyful season at SM Lanang, follow its official social media pages for more details or visit www.smsupermalls.com.

December 2, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Witness Makati in Color: Where Christmas Tradition Meets Imagination

by Contributor November 18, 2025

written by Contributor

For over five decades, Makati has welcomed the holidays by lighting up Ayala Avenue—a tradition that signals the true beginning of the Christmas season in the country for many Filipino families. What began as a simple gesture of festivity has grown into a beloved moment that people look forward to every year, grounding the city’s celebrations in shared history and meaning.

This year, Ayala Land and Make It Makati proudly present Makati In Color: Where Christmas Tradition Meets Imagination—a vibrant contemporary take on Filipino symbols expressed through unexpected colors, patterns, and forms. Inspired by the sarimanok (a symbol of prosperity) and anahaw (a symbol of resilience), the pieces reinterpret heritage in ways that reflect Makati’s character as a thought leader in urban creativity and innovation. According to Ms. Meean Dy, President and CEO of Ayala Land, “This year’s theme reflects that spirit of creativity and renewal. These designs celebrate Filipino heritage expressed in a modern, contemporary way, much like Makati itself.”

But Makati In Color is more than just a new visual story. It is a celebration at scale—one that combines the estate-wide Christmas décor with a full season of performances, shows, and community activities. This year’s festivities unfold as one story, weaving design, music, craft, and culture into a uniquely textured Filipino Christmas experience.

A Bigger Christmas, a Brighter Makati

Christmas in Makati expands farther than ever before. The lights now extend beyond Ayala Avenue and Ayala Triangle Gardens, illuminating Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue to create a more connected and immersive holiday experience.

And today marks another first: Makati’s flagship malls—starting with Greenbelt—also join the celebration by lighting up their own spaces.

From the Makati Central Business District to Circuit Makati, the theme travels across the city, unifying Makati under one contemporary Christmas story.

L-R: Ayala Corporation Chief Sustainability & Risk Officer Jaime Zobel Urquijo; Bea Zobel de Ayala, Jr.; Ayala Corporation Chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala; Makati Mayor Nancy Binay; Ayala Land President & CEO Meean Dy; Ayala Land Creative Director Paloma Urquijo Zobel; MACEA Board Chairman Emilio Tumbocon Jr.; and Ayala Land Estates Group Head Chris Maglanoc

Makati in Color Presents PASKONG LIKHA: A Textured Filipino Christmas Experience Across Ayala Triangle

As part of this year’s expanded festivities, Ayala Land and Make It Makati introduce Makati In Color: Paskong Likha—a curated lineup of shows, installations, markets, and creative activities brought to life across different corners of Ayala Triangle Gardens.

Paskong Likha is a layered celebration of Filipino artistry—bringing together the polish of theater and pop performers with the raw, rhythmic energy of indie Filipino artists. It is a joyful expression of creativity and community, where every detail contributes to the story of who we are.

Key features include:

Art projections featuring Filipino weaves and local patterns
Craft sessions where the community can adorn trees with decorative fabrics
Performances staged throughout Ayala Triangle to activate multiple spaces and create an immersive experience

Together, these elements turn the Gardens into a living canvas—vibrant, textured, and unmistakably Filipino.

A SEASON-LONG CELEBRATION: All part of a textured Filipino Christmas story at

The festivities opened tonight, November 13, with the lighting of Ayala Avenue—featuring performances by Cris Villonco, Shiela Valderrama, Arman Ferrer, the Chorale Society of Makati, and Mari Dance.

Weekend and weekday performances all season long

*With more shows to be announced:

November 15 & 16 – UST Singers
November 22 & 23 – Orchestral Performance
November 26 – Warner Music Philippines concert featuring Lola Amour, Arthur Miguel, Dilaw, Felip, Jan Roberts, Jason Dhakal, Player Two, Stell, and Sugarcane
First three weekends of December
(Dec 5–7; 12–14; 19–22) – “Pasko na Manam”, string quartet performances presented by Manam
December 26–28 – Outdoor cinema under the canopy of Tower One (MMFF celebration)
December 31 – New Year’s Eve countdown at Ayala Avenue featuring the country’s biggest artists

Christmas Markets: Makati Street Meet at Paseo de Roxas

A series of Christmas markets will happen at Paseo de Roxas, highlight a mix of Filipino artisanal food, local makers, and homegrown art. Even the classic French bazaar is presented as a Franco-Filipino market, celebrating the blend of cultures through food, craft, and design.

December 6-7 – The Makati Street Meet returns with Holiday Bites by Spectrum Fair. Explore a wide array of local food and retail purveyors at this anticipated lifestyle market, perfect for Christmas shopping
December 13-14 and 20-21 – Makati Street Meet is also hosting the third installment of Marche de Noel in collaboration with the French Embassy. This annual Christmas market features French and Filipino gastronomy – truly a haven for foodies.

Simbang Gabi

From December 15 to 23, the annual Simbang Gabi masses at Ayala Triangle bring the community together in reflection, gratitude, and hope.

CHRISTMAS IN COLOR IN MAKATI

This year’s celebrations reflect what Makati does best—creativity, innovation, community, and culture—woven into one unforgettable, textured Filipino Christmas experience. It is bigger, more colorful, and more festive than ever.

Join us at Ayala Avenue, Ayala Triangle Gardens, Ayala Center Makati, and Circuit Makati from November 13 to January 11, 2026, and immerse yourself in Makati In Color.

Follow Make It Makati on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and Threads for updates, schedules, and event highlights.

November 18, 2025 0 comments

Business Lifestyle

NUSTAR Resort Cebu Illuminates the Holidays with “Pearl of the Holiday Season”

by Contributor October 28, 2025

written by Contributor

Cebu City — NUSTAR Resort Cebu officially welcomed the holiday season on October 25, 2025, with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at The Atrium, themed “Pearl of the Holiday Season.”

A Pearl that Reflects Cebu’s Enduring Spirit

Inspired by the pearl, a symbol of resilience and transformation, this year’s celebration at NUSTAR highlighted Cebu’s enduring strength and optimism.

“Every year, this celebration gives us the opportunity to pause and reflect; to celebrate how far we’ve come, and to remind us of what truly matters. This year’s theme, “Pearl of the Holiday Season,” holds a special meaning for all of us,” said Mr. Sean Knights. “The pearl is born through time, pressure, and transformation. From something ordinary comes something radiant: a symbol of beauty, strength, and grace. In many ways, it mirrors our story as a community and as a resort. Cebu, like the pearl, continues to rise with resilience and shines brighter with every challenge it overcomes.”

NUSTAR Resort & Casino Cebu’s Chief Operating Officer Mr. Sean Knights and Children of Cebu Foundation Inc. Vice President Dr. Clarissa Pe, during a ceremonial handover of the donation held at The Atrium, reaffirming NUSTAR’s commitment to community development.

Now in its fourth year, NUSTAR continued its signature Installation of the Stars, a tradition symbolizing love, joy, peace, hope, and Cebu’s shared aspiration for renewal. This year’s star bearers were the children of The Children of Cebu Foundation, Inc. (TCCFI), the resort’s chosen beneficiary. The final star, known as the New Star, was placed by Mr. Knights, representing Cebu’s collective optimism for the future. The illuminated tree now stands as a centerpiece of the resort’s festivities and a reminder of NUSTAR’s commitment to spreading hope and joy throughout the season.

A Pearl of Generosity

Through its philanthropic arm, the Universal Cultural Foundation Inc. (UCFI), NUSTAR extended support to The Children of Cebu Foundation. The initiative will fund essential repairs and new equipment to improve the foundation’s facilities, creating a safer and more nurturing space for more than 30 resident and transient children.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Children of Cebu Foundation Inc., the Staff and most of all our Children at the Parian Drop-in Center, we welcome the collaboration with NUSTAR with joyful and grateful hearts,” said Mrs. Margot Osmeña, President of The Children of Cebu Foundation, Inc. “It is because of Partners like [NUSTAR] that we have been blessed to receive and provide a home to over 6000 children over the past 33 years.”

A Pearl of Celebration: Dining and Holiday Experiences

Across the property, NUSTAR’s dining outlets and hotels present a full calendar of festive experiences.  Xin Tian Di features the Prosperity Trio: Stir-Fried Lobster Slippers with Ginger and Scallions, Stir-Fried Abalone with Trio Mushrooms and Asparagus, and Patatim with Steamed Buns, together with Prosperity Feast Set Menus available on December 24, 25, 31 and January 1.  Il Primo offers five-course Christmas and New Year menus with optional wine pairings and an al fresco celebration on New Year’s Eve. Mott 32 serves seasonal lunches and festive six-course menus paired with Prosecco or champagne.  Axis Entertainment & Sports Bar hosts themed nights with feast bundles and signature cocktails, while Fina and Huangdi present seafood and six-course family menus respectively.

Throughout December, Fili Café stages daily festive buffets, highlighted by Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day spreads.  NUSTAR Lobby Lounge offers a Festive Delights Afternoon Tea with sparkling wine, and Fili Lobby Lounge introduces The Christmas Treats Corner featuring handcrafted chocolates and elegant hampers from November 24 to December 31.

A Pearl on the Rise at The Mall | NUSTAR

At The Mall | NUSTAR, the spirit of the season continues to grow brighter with upcoming musical performances, family-friendly events, and more. Guests can also look forward to new retail experiences as The Mall welcomes soon-to-open tenants, including Lucky Lantern, Carmen’s Best Ice Cream, Bruno’s Barber, Kamiseta Skin Clinic, Ramen Nagi, and Playville by Kid’s Paradise.

A Radiant Pearl of Hope

Through this year’s “Pearl of the Holiday Season,” NUSTAR continues its tradition of meaningful celebration, one that honors Cebu’s resilience while sharing the joy and hope that defines the Christmas season.

For more information and updates on holiday offers, visit www.nustar.com.ph or call (032) 888 8282.

October 28, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

SM Supermalls kicks off the 100 days to Christmas with kindness

by Contributor September 30, 2025

written by Contributor

The world’s longest Christmas season just got merrier because SM Supermalls is ringing in the holiday spirit as early as September!

On September 16, the country’s favorite destination officially kicks off the 100 Days countdown to Christmas with dazzling decorations, festive activities, and heartwarming surprises across all 88 malls nationwide, including SM City Davao and SM Lanang.

This year, SM is making the holidays extra meaningful as it celebrates “100 Days of Kindness”—a nationwide campaign that brings cheer, joy, and generosity to millions of Filipinos.

Spread kindness and make everyday moments brighter

Christmas at SM has always been about togetherness, joy, and giving. This 2025, SM Supermalls highlights acts of kindness as the true spirit of the holidays.

From September 16 to December 25, SM will feature daily videos on its digital platforms featuring touching and inspiring acts of kindness through the “100 Days of Kindness” campaign, where shoppers may experience random acts of kindness such as surprise treats, warm greetings, and delightful gifts. Each day is a chance to make someone smile, reminding everyone that kindness, no matter how small, makes the season brighter.

4. Unwrap all things red and merry at SM Lanang.

Join the grand holiday kickoff

SM Supermalls is ushering in the 100 Days to Christmas with a festive lineup of activities. Mallgoers nationwide will be treated to a joyful Holi-Squad Mall Greeting, a simultaneous meet-and-greet that brings early Christmas magic to every SM mall.

To complete the grand kickoff, shoppers will be delighted by the unveiling of the Happiest Holiday Décor, where malls transform into enchanting holiday destinations adorned with the iconic Holiday Grand Red Ribbon, symbolizing joy, unity, and the true spirit of Christmas.

Experience festive activities leading up to Christmas

The holiday festivities continue with a series of exciting events leading up to December.

From October 20 onwards, SM malls will unveil their dazzling mall centerpiece displays, bustling holiday bazaars, Santa’s chair for warm holiday greetings, and special appearances from the Holi-Squad.

Adding a touch of magic, shoppers on December 6 can witness the enchanting Holiday Snowflakes Surprises, where a simultaneous confetti shower across selected malls will shower 100 lucky guests with special gifts from partner tenants.

The festive spirit will fill the air as chorale groups serenade mallgoers with uplifting performances on World Chorale Day this December. To make weekends even more memorable, SM will host the Happiest Holiday Weekends throughout December, with Santa meet-and-greets, lively busking sessions, and heartwarming holiday carols for the whole family to enjoy.

This year, the Bears of Joy are getting a makeover! Welcome the SM Besties of Joy. For every bear purchased, another will be donated to a child in need, spreading warmth and comfort to those craving the magic of Christmas.

Shop, dine, and celebrate with special holi-deals

Shoppers can also look forward to SM Malls Online Holiday Deals from December 1 to 31, offering exclusive holiday gift specials and dining feasts perfect for gatherings with family and friends. Whether you’re ticking off your gift list or planning a memorable holiday meal, SM makes sure every celebration is filled with joy and convenience.

Celebrate the happiest, kindest Christmas yet at SM!

With all these celebrations and surprises in store, SM Supermalls invites everyone to experience the happiest, kindest Christmas yet. From grand events to simple acts of giving, SM proves that the true magic of the season is found in kindness.

The countdown has begun—because at SM, Christmas starts now!

September 30, 2025 0 comments

Business

Cebu Pacific to Operate A330neo Flights to Bohol, Iloilo, Puerto Princesa

by Contributor August 23, 2025

written by Contributor

Cebu Pacific will soon introduce Airbus A330neo flights to more destinations in its domestic network to support the growing demand for air travel ahead of the holiday season.

Starting October 26, 2025, the 459-seater widebody aircraft will operate flights between Manila to Iloilo 7x weekly, and between Manila and Puerto Princesa 4x weekly starting November 2, 2025. A330neo flights will also operate between Manila and Bohol 7x weekly beginning November 16, 2025.

Start of Operations	Route	Frequency
October 26	Manila – Iloilo – Manila	7x weekly
November 2	Manila – Puerto Princesa – Manila	4x weekly
November 16	Manila – Bohol – Manila	7x weekly

“We’re excited to expand our A330neo operations to more Philippine destinations, as this allows us to offer more seats, lower fares, and an even more comfortable travel experience for our passengers. By increasing capacity to key domestic routes, we not only make travel more accessible, but also help drive tourism and stimulate economic activity, creating opportunities for local communities and further supporting the growth of Philippine tourism,” said Xander Lao, President and Chief Commercial Officer of Cebu Pacific.

CEB is the largest operator of A330neo aircraft in Asia-Pacific, currently with a total of 12 aircraft of this kind in its fleet. With the arrival of its latest A330neo aircraft in July, CEB also became the first local airline to operate a 100-strong fleet.

Currently, CEB operates A330neo flights to Cebu, Davao, and General Santos, as well as several international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates.

With CEB’s A330neo flights now having a wider reach across the Philippines, more travelers will be able to experience Puerto Princesa’s rich marine life and access its stunning beaches, explore Iloilo’s sumptuous dishes and well-preserved Spanish-era landmarks, and visit Bohol, the home of the world’s smallest primate—the tarsier.

This move also aligns with CEB’s ongoing efforts to provide its passengers with improved comfort, increased capacity, and a more sustainable way to travel. With its extended range and high seating capability, the A330neo allows the airline to optimize operations on both high-demand and strategically important routes. The A330neo provides CEB with the flexibility to serve regional, long-haul, and busy domestic routes, all while maintaining cost-efficiency.

Airbus NEOs are the latest-generation aircraft that burn up to 25 percent less fuel per flight and produce less noise compared to the previous generation. The decrease in fuel consumption leads to a corresponding reduction in aircraft carbon emissions. CEB operates one of the youngest fleets in the world, with its diversified fleet mix of 12 Airbus A330s, 40 Airbus A320s, 26 Airbus A321s, and 22 ATR turboprop aircraft, enabling the widest network coverage in the Philippines.

August 23, 2025 0 comments

Lifestyle

Cebu Pacific Adds More Flights to Key Domestic Destinations

by Contributor August 14, 2025

written by Contributor

Cebu Pacific is enhancing travel options for passengers traveling during the holiday season with additional flight frequencies on major domestic routes.

Starting October 26, 2025, flights between Clark and El Nido will increase to 18x weekly, while flights between Clark and Coron (Busuanga) will boost to 17x weekly, further strengthening Clark’s connectivity to Palawan.

CEB will also operate more flights between Cebu and Calbayog in the same period, providing flexibility for travelers to and from the Eastern Visayas.

From Manila, CEB will also increase frequencies to Butuan, Cagayan De Oro, Cebu, Dumaguete, General Santos, Iloilo, Pagadian, Puerto Princesa, and Zamboanga.

Route	From	To
Clark – El Nido – Clark	14x weekly	18x weekly
Clark – Coron (Busuanga) – Clark	7x weekly	17x weekly
Cebu – Calbayog – Cebu	7x weekly	11x weekly
Manila – Butuan – Manila	35x weekly	39x weekly
Manila – Cagayan De Oro – Manila	56x weekly	63x weekly
Manila – Cebu – Manila	94x weekly	103x weekly
Manila – Dumaguete – Manila	35x weekly	38x weekly
Manila – General Santos – Manila	28x weekly	31x weekly
Manila – Iloilo – Manila	54x weekly	57x weekly
Manila – Pagadian – Manila	14x weekly	21x weekly
Manila – Puerto Princesa – Manila	43x weekly	46x weekly
Manila – Zamboanga – Manila	32x weekly	39x weekly

“With the peak holiday season fast approaching, we want to ensure that our passengers have more opportunities to spend time with their loved ones and enjoy their well-deserved breaks. By adding more flights on key domestic routes, we aim to make it easier for every Juan to travel to their chosen destinations,” said Xander Lao, CEB President and Chief Commercial Officer.

Passengers may book their flights to these domestic destinations through CEB’s multiple payment options, including credit and debit cards, as well as e-wallets.

CEB operates in 37 domestic and 26 international destinations spanning Asia, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates.

August 14, 2025 0 comments