Friday, January 22, 2010

CEBU PACIFIC FURTHER REDUCES FARES TO AS LOW AS P388 ONE WAY

CEBU PACIFIC FURTHER REDUCES FARES TO AS LOW AS P388 ONE WAY

Cebu Pacific (CEB), the country's low-fare pioneer, is reducing further its fares to as low as P388 one way in what it calls Great Seat Sale promo to promote domestic travel during non-peak periods.

Under this promo, passengers have only six days, January 12 to 17, to buy tickets. Travel will be from January 31 up to March 16.

This promotional sale is on top of CEB's 'Go' fares which are permanent – not promotional – low fares and available year round.

"We have set aside more than 50,000 seats for this promotional sale. With fares this low, people don't have to wait for the summer break to travel and visit families," said Bong Mojica, CEB general manager.

The Great Seat Sale fares start at P388 for Manila to Roxas and Cebu to Iloilo; P488 for Manila to Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Palawan, Tacloban, and Kalibo; P588 for Cebu to Zamboanga, Cebu to Davao and Davao to Zamboanga and P788 for Manila to Tagbilaran, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Dumaguete, Cotabato, Davao, Zamboanga and from Davao to Iloilo for a one-way trip.

"These fares are for immediate payment upon booking so we urge everyone to go to our ticket offices or the nearest travel agent. Those paying with credit cards can call our reservations office at 70-20-888," he said.

CEBU PACIFIC ON-LINE BOOKING IN LESS THAN 10 MINUTES

CEBU PACIFIC ON-LINE BOOKING IN LESS THAN 10 MINUTES

Cebu Pacific Air (CEB), the second largest airline in the Philippines, re-launched its website with real time booking capability to make booking more flexible and convenient.

The airline's improved website (www.cebupacificair.com) allows passengers to book their flights as late as three hours before departure time and also allows them to pay and get their e-tickets on-line.

"Constant innovation has always been important to CEB and we are always looking for opportunities to offer our travelers more options. Our website offers all the needed information about our 'Go' fares and flight schedules. This makes CEB more accessible and efficient," Bong Mojica, CEB general manager said.

Mojica added that the internet booking engine is another demonstration that CEB, as a low-cost airline, is always on the lookout for ways to deliver high-quality cost efficient service.

"Through the website, travelers can book for the lowest available 'Go' fares, pay with their credit card, and print out their e-ticket in one sitting. The entire process is completed in 5 easy steps and should take less than 10 minutes," Mojica said.

CEBU PACIFIC OFFERS VALENTINE SEAT SALE WITH FARES FROM P398

CEBU PACIFIC OFFERS VALENTINE SEAT SALE WITH FARES FROM P398

Cebu Pacific (CEB), the country's low-fare pioneer, is offering fares as low as P398 one way under its Valentine Seat Sale Promo.

The promo has set aside more than12,000 seats for sale on a first-come, first-served basis from February 10 to 16, or until they are sold out. Travel period is from March 1 to March 22.

This promo is on top of CEB's 'Go' fares which are permanent – not promotional – low fares and are available year round.

The Valentine Seat Sale offers one-way fares at P398 from Cebu to Iloilo; P598 for Manila to Bacolod, Iloilo, Roxas, Tacloban, as well as Cebu to Zamboanga and Davao to Zamboanga; P798 from Manila to Butuan, Cagayan de Oro and Cotabato.

CEBU PACIFIC AND ROBINSONS RETAIL GROUP FLY HIGH WITH GO! MASTERCARD

CEBU PACIFIC AND ROBINSONS RETAIL GROUP FLY HIGH WITH GO! MASTERCARD

THE green light is on as the Robinsons Retail Group and Cebu Pacific team up with Metrobank Card Corporation (MCC) to launch an exciting credit card that offers a comprehensive rewards system like no other.

"We are excited and proud to team up with Metrobank Card Corporation in enhancing the purchasing powers of our customers with this very special Go! MasterCard Rewards program," says Lance Gokongwei, President and CEO of Robinsons and Cebu Pacific. "It is also our own way of thanking our customers for their continuous patronage of our stores and services."

The Go! MasterCard has several components. The Go! Rewards program awards one point for every P200 spent using the card in locations where MasterCard is accepted, and double points if used at Robinsons Department Store, Robinsons Supermarket, Robinsons Appliances, Handyman Do It Best and Handyman Do It Center, Topshop and Topman, Dorothy Perkins, Wallis and Cebu Pacific ticket offices and in the Cebu Pacific website (cebupacificair.com).

The Go! Rewards points may then be exchanged for a Go! Cash Gift Card that can be used to purchase a variety of items from the above Robinsons Retail establishments or to purchase a Cebu Pacific ticket. The Go! Cash Gift Card is a more fun and flexible way of choosing the rewards, rather than choosing from a limited catalogue offering. Frequent travelers will particularly appreciate the conversion of their Go! Points for payment of Cebu Pacific tickets. With enough points, they can even fly for free.

Cebu Pacific offers P10 fare to any domestic destination

Cebu Pacific offers P10 fare to any domestic destination

Cebu Pacific (CEB) will offer a P10 (ten peso) one-way fare to any of its domestic destinations starting March 3 to celebrate its 10th anniversary. CEB operations started on March 8, 1996.

Passengers have only from March 3 to 8 (or until seats last) to buy their tickets for travel from June 20 to October 18. There are more than 100,000 seats available for this anniversary seat sale. The P10 one-way fare is exclusive of taxes and surcharges and are available on a first come first served basis.

Bong Mojica, CEB general manager, said that this is another first in Philippine aviation history from Cebu Pacific.

"Never before has an airline offered fares this low. Ten years ago, CEB introduced low fares in the market and allowed more Filipinos to fly. Today, we are casting an even wider net and lowering our fares even further to encourage more first-time flyers to take CEB and for those who are already flying, to fly more," he said.

The P10 fare for CEB's 10th Anniversary Seat Sale can be easily booked and ticketed through its website (www.cebupacificair.com). This is also available through the new CEB reservations office at (02) 70-20-888 or CEB ticket offices and accredited travel agents.

Cebu Pacific sees increase in customer base with Galileo

Cebu Pacific sees increase in customer base with Galileo

Cebu Pacific (CEB) will make use of Galileo International Inc. worldwide computerized reservation system to increase its customer base and expand its ticket sales into new markets.

In a marketing agreement signed recently, CEB has given Galileo's world wide network of travel agents full access to the airline's international and domestic fares, including promotional offers and booking services to make CEB's services more accessible to key markets worldwide.

Galileo, a leading provider of internet-based distribution services for the travel industry, is part of Cendant Corporation's Travel Distribution Services (TDS) division is one of the world's largest and geographically diverse collections of travel brands and distribution business.

Edwin Bautista, CEB Head of Sales, said the partnership will improve Galileo's service and level of choice for its customers while allowing CEB to have a bigger customer base by serving an even larger and wider network of markets.

"Our partnership with Galileo will not only make CEB reservations more accessible but will also give the CEB access to Cendant's broad portfolio of content channels which will enhance awareness of the airline's services to key markets worldwide," Bautista said.

"This will enhance awareness of our brand and content globally, while positioning CEB as a key player in the Philippines and the region," he said.

Andrew Ling, Regional Manager, Galileo Philippines said the partnership with CEB demonstrates Cendant's goal of delivering breakthrough partnerships and diverse product offerings as well as the company's strong commitment to the Philippine travel and tourism industry.

Cebu Pacific’s P10 one-way fare sold out

Cebu Pacific's P10 one-way fare sold out

Cebu Pacific (CEB) has sold in six promo days more than 150,000 seats at P10 each for its 10th anniversary last week and pledged to continue promoting domestic tourism.

Lance Gokongwei, CEB president, said the airline will continue to assist the government in its efforts to promote domestic tourism by making air travel more affordable through permanent low fares. "The key to getting these low fares is to book early," he added.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who was present during the celebration, led the blessing of one of the airline's brand-new Airbus A319 aircraft.

It now operates two A320 aircraft and four A319 aircraft, all brand new. Once it takes delivery of eight more new Airbus aircraft in the next 12 months to complete its $670-million refleeting program, CEB would have the youngest fleet in Asia, Gokongwei said.

Gokongwei said the program signifies CEB's commitment to be an active partner in the nation's progress by helping travel and tourism become a more vibrant sector. "We want more Filipinos to experience flying and we want to do our own share in connecting all of our islands with great, on time, Cebu Pacific service," he said.

"CEB's strength as an airline has and will always be putting the traveler at the center of everything that we do—in planning our fleet, in determining our schedules and in planning our fares, making sure that more people can fly," he stressed.

Cebu Pacific Adds more flights to Hong Kong

Cebu Pacific Adds more flights to Hong Kong

Cebu Pacific (CEB) will add another frequency to its Manila-Hong Kong route, increasing its flights from 14 to 17 times weekly, starting April 3, 2006.

The additional service is scheduled to operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The Manila- Hong Kong flight departs at 7:25 p.m. while the Hong Kong – Manila flight leaves at 10:10 p.m. 'Go' fares for Hong Kong start at P1,999 one way and are available year-round.

"The additional service is brought about by market growth and the constant increase in CEB passenger loads since the introduction of the Hong Kong 'Go' fares in January 2006," said Cebu Pacific General Manager, Danilo Mojica II.

He emphasized that the re-launch of their website (cebupacificair.com) with real time booking had a major impact on their market growth. "With the new website, we are more accessible and always available," he said.

"We are happy to give this opportunity to a lot of our kababayans in Hong Kong. Now they can visit their families in the Philippines more often, or bring their families to Hong Kong. Aside from this, we see that the Filipinos are starting to appreciate the concept of booking early, paying less and enjoying its benefit," Mojica added.

The airline opened its first regional office in Kowloon, Hong Kong last October 2005 to facilitate ticket sales and function as a customer service desk for the large OFW market in Hong Kong. CEB's Hong Kong office also handles the airline's promotion and marketing efforts in HK, China, Macao, Taiwan and Japan.

Cebu Pacific adds frequency to Cebu-Davao route

Cebu Pacific adds frequency to Cebu-Davao route

Cebu Pacific (CEB), the country's low-fare pioneer, will add another frequency to its Cebu – Davao service, increasing its flights from twice to three times daily.

Starting April 1, 2006, the additional service will depart from Cebu at 11:35 a.m. and arrive in Davao at 12:30 p.m. The flight leaves Davao at 1:00 p.m. and arrive in Cebu at 1:55 p.m. 'Go' fares start at P998 one-way and are available year-round.

Bong Mojica, CEB General Manager stated that the additional service plays an important part in the airline's vision to make more Filipinos experience flying. "At present we have more flights going in and out of Cebu and Davao than any other airline. So, whether you are traveling for business or leisure from these two cities, CEB offers great value with low fares, on time performance, and warm and caring service," he said.

Cebu Pacific offers seats at ONE PESO to any domestic destination

Cebu Pacific offers seats at ONE PESO to any domestic destination

Cebu Pacific (CEB), the country's low-fare pioneer will offer seats at ONE PESO to any of its domestic destinations from March 29 to April 2 or until seats are sold out.

Passengers have only from March 29 to April 2 to buy their tickets for travel from June 20 to October 18. There are more than 50,000 seats available for this sale. These ONE PESO seats are available on a first come first served basis and are exclusive of taxes and surcharges.

"We are the country's low fare leader and we will always have the lowest fares to any destination we fly to. It's all about making flying more affordable to more people and now that we're giving out our seats practically for free, almost anyone can fly," Bong Mojica, CEB general manager said.

"The success of the recently concluded 10th Anniversary Sale was very encouraging. We realized how much the market can be stimulated to travel and book ahead of time. It's something we want to further promote because we want Filipinos to realize that the earlier they book their tickets, the less they really end up paying for them," he emphasized.

CEB's 10th Anniversary Seat Sale was sold out and more than half of the tickets were sold online through the airline's website (www.cebupacificair.com). These one peso seats will also be available online or through the new CEB reservations office at (02) 70-20-888 or CEB ticket offices and accredited travel agents.

Cebu Pacific is advising its passengers

Runway closure to cause flight delays

Cebu Pacific is advising its passengers to expect delays in its domestic and international service due to the closure of NAIA's Runway 13/31 for renovation starting April 17. This leaves only Runway 06 to service all flights.

Runway 13/31 will be upgraded to handle bigger and heavier aircraft that are expected once the NAIA Terminal 3 starts operations. The renovation is expected to be completed by July 17.

Cebu Pacific is currently discussing with airport officials ways to ease the delays.

CEBU PACIFIC’s SUMMER SEAT SALE STARTING AT P398 sh

CEBU PACIFIC's SUMMER SEAT SALE STARTING AT P398

Cebu Pacific (CEB), the country's low-fare pioneer, is offering its Summer Seat sale with fares as low as P398 one-way to further promote domestic travel during non-peak periods.

Selling period for this promo starts from May 5 up to May 9 only. Travel will be from June 14 up to July 31, 2006.

This promotional sale is on top of CEB's 'Go' fares which are permanent – not promotional – low fares and available year round.

"We are nearing the end of summer when domestic tourism is robust but we would like to encourage people to continue traveling even during the off-peak period because this is when we & the whole tourism industry need people to travel more. Events like our Summer Seat Sale will stimulate and grow the market even further" Bong Mojica, CEB General Manager said.

The Summer Seat Sale fares start at P398 for Cebu to Iloilo; P498 for Manila to Kalibo and Roxas; P598 for Manila to Bacolod, Cebu, Iloilo, Puerto Princesa and Tacloban, Cebu to Davao, Zamboanga, and Davao to Zamboanga; and P798 for Manila to Butuan, Cotabato, Cagayan de Oro, Dumaguete, Davao, Tagbilaran, Zamboanga and from Davao to Iloilo (via cebu) for a one-way trip.

CEBU PACIFIC LAUNCHES NEW LAOAG SERVICE STARTING AT P488

CEBU PACIFIC LAUNCHES NEW LAOAG SERVICE STARTING AT P488

Cebu Pacific (CEB) is adding another route to its domestic service with its three times weekly flights between Manila and Laoag City starting on June 8, 2006. The Manila-Laoag flight departs Manila every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 11:55am arriving 12:45pm and departs Laoag at 1:15pm arriving in Manila at 2:05pm.

Bong Mojica, CEB General Manager, said the Manila-Laoag service plays an important part in the airline's vision of making travel within the country a lot more affordable and convenient for both local and foreign travelers alike. Laoag, the capital of Ilocos Norte, is the province's commercial and industrial hub. The city is known for its pottery, furniture and woven products and is a popular tourist destination in North Luzon.

The Manila-Laoag route will be the first destination that will be regularly serviced by CEB in Northern Luzon. The route will be serviced by the airline's brand-new airbus A319 aircraft with 150-seating capacity.

"CEB will continue to expand its domestic operations and look for new routes in order to support the promotion of domestic tourism. By continuing to offer the lowest fares in all the markets we fly to and by introducing significantly lower fares in markets we enter we hope to achieve our vision of making air travel an option for more and more Filipinos," Mojica said.

Cebu Pacific cuts year-round ‘Go’ Fares by up to 43%

Cebu Pacific cuts year-round 'Go' Fares by up to 43%

Cebu Pacific (CEB) the country's low fare pioneer has reduced its lowest 'Go' fares by as much as 43% starting Friday, June 2. The lowest 'Go' fare to any Visayas destination is now P568 one-way, while the lowest 'Go' fare to any Mindanao destination is P868 one-way.

CEB 'Go' fares are permanent – not promotional – low fares available for travel and booking all year-round and exclusive of regular surcharges and government tax.

"It's all about making travel more affordable so that more Filipinos can fly. We are taking delivery of our 7th and 8th brand new Airbus aircraft this week and we are more than halfway through with our re-fleeting program. By August, CEB will have an all Airbus fleet and the youngest fleet in the Philippines. We will have increased our capacity by more than 40%. This means that we will have more seats to offer at even lower fares," said Lance Gokongwei, CEB president and CEO.

CEB now operates 2 brand new Airbus A320 and 4 A319 aircraft. This week the airline expects delivery of 2 more A319 while 4 more Airbus A319 will arrive in the next 4 months. The last 2 A320 aircraft will be delivered in early 2007 when CEB shall have completed its re-fleeting program.

"These reduced 'Go' fares will be available year-round but we advise people to book early for best availability. Manila to Cebu or to any other Visayas destination is now only P568 one-way, reduced from P888 or by 36%, Manila to Davao or to any Mindanao destination is now only P868 one-way, reduced from P1,250 or by more than 30%. Cebu to Davao or any inter-island sector is now only P568 one-way, reduced from P998 or by 43%. With fares this low, it's time everyone flies," he added.

Cebu Pacific’s brand new A319 flies to Roxas

Cebu Pacific (CEB) will fly its brand new Airbus A319 for the first time on June 9, 2006, between Roxas and Manila.

The new aircraft will service the Roxas-Manila route four times weekly. The flight will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The flight departs Manila at 12:25pm arriving Roxas at 1:20pm and leaves Roxas at 1:50pm arriving Manila at 2:45pm.

"Cebu Pacific is committed to the growth of local tourism. As we take delivery of our 7th and 8th brand new Airbus this month and as we start flying the A319 to and from Roxas, we will be increasing our capacity by 36% on the days we operate. This means that we will be able to offer our lowest fares to more and more people," said Candice Iyog, CEB marketing director.

The 150-seater Airbus A319 aircraft is known for its low maintenance and fuel cost efficiency. These operational savings will allow CEB to continue offering its trademark value fares to its customers.

"Our year-round 'Go' fares offering will allow our passengers to travel from Manila to Roxas for as low as P568 one-way. With our low fares and brand new aircraft, we are making it possible for more people to fly. This will certainly help boost local tourism in Roxas and the surrounding areas," she added.

Ms. Iyog also emphasized that the best and easiest way to grab the lowest 'Go' fare is through their website www.cebupacificair.com. 'Go' fares are available year round -- not promotional – and exclusive of regular surcharges and government tax.

Cebu Pacific’s brand new A319 flies to Puerto Princesa

Cebu Pacific (CEB) flies its brand new Airbus A319 for the first time today, June 8, 2006, between Manila and Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

Candice Iyog, CEB marketing director said, "Cebu Pacific is committed to the growth of local tourism. As we utilize the A319's, our aircraft capacity effectively increases by 36%. This means we will be able to carry more travelers to visit and enjoy the Philippines' last frontier."

The 150-seater Airbus A319 aircraft is known for its low maintenance and fuel cost efficiency. These operational savings allows CEB to continue offering its trademark value fares to its customers.

"Our 'Go' fares offering will allow our passengers to travel from Manila to Puerto Princesa for as low as P568 one-way. We know that Puerto Princesa is one of the country's top summer destinations, but with the airline's low fares and brand new aircraft, we hope to make Puerto Princesa a popular destination all year round," she added.

Ms. Iyog also emphasized that the easiest way to grab the lowest 'Go' fare is through their website www.cebupacificair.com. 'Go' fares are available year round -- not promotional – and exclusive of regular surcharges and government tax.

CEB's expansion program is well underway as it awaits the delivery of six more brand new Airbus aircraft to complete its re-fleeting program by early 2007. Today, the airline also started flying to their newest destination, Laoag, Ilocos Norte.

Cebu Pacific now flying to LAOAG

Cebu Pacific (CEB) adds another route to its domestic service with its three times weekly service between Manila and Laoag City starting today, June 8, 2006. The Manila- Laoag flight departs every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 12:25pm arriving Laoag at 1:15pm and departs Laoag at 1:45pm arriving in Manila at 2:35pm.

Lance Gokongwei, CEB President and CEO, said the Manila-Laoag service plays an important part in the airline's vision of making travel a lot more affordable and convenient for both local and foreign travelers. Laoag, the capital of Ilocos Norte, is the province's commercial and industrial hub. The city is known for its pottery, furniture and woven products. It is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in North Luzon.

The Manila- Laoag route will be Cebu Pacific's first regular service in Northern Luzon. The airline will utilize its brand-new airbus A319 aircraft with a 150-seating capacity.

"CEB recently offered an introductory Seat Sale of P488 (one-way) to and from Laoag. To support the promotion of domestic tourism, we will continue to offer our trademark low fares as we enter new markets and expand our operations. With these efforts we hope to achieve our vision of making air travel an option for more and more Filipinos," Gokongwei said.

Cebu Pacific flies to Dipolog for only 688 pesos

Cebu Pacific (CEB), the country's low-fare pioneer, will open three times weekly A319 flights to Dipolog City, starting July 13, 2006, for a special introductory fare of only 688 pesos one-way. The Manila-Dipolog service departs Manila every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 11:45am arriving in Dipolog at 1pm and leaves Dipolog at 1:30pm to arrive back in Manila at 2:45pm.

Lance Gokongwei, CEB president and CEO, said the Manila-Dipolog service reinforces the airlines' commitment to strengthen local tourism in the country.

"Dipolog is known for numerous tourist spots like Dakak Beach and Dapitan Bay as well as its sardine industry. It also showcases year-round festivities and presents itself as one of the major trade hubs in Mindanao. And with the recent success of its Biyahe Na Zamboanga Peninsula regional showcase and the Hudyaka Festival, we believe that the 'Orchid City' of the Philippines can become a major gateway for tourism and business in Mindanao," said Gokongwei.

CEB will introduce its Manila-Dipolog (v.v.) service with an introductory Seat Sale of only 688 pesos one-way, almost 77% less than the current airfare to Dipolog. The sale runs from June 15 to 22 only for travel from July 13 to October 19, 2006. After the Seat Sale, the year-round 'Go' fares to Dipolog start at only 868 pesos one-way, still more than 70% less than the current airfare. The 'Go' fares are exclusive of regular surcharges and government tax.

"In line with our vision to make air travel an option for more Filipinos, we are bringing our trademark low fares and brand new Airbus A319 service to Dipolog. We hope that CEB's entry to this market will once again bring down airfares to Dipolog and stimulate travel to this vibrant city because we really believe it's time everyone flies," he added.

"For best availability of our lowest fares, I suggest for everyone to plan their travel ahead of time and book online (cebupacificair.com,)" he emphasized.s

Cebu Pacific provides online travel solutions for guests

Cebu Pacific (CEB) will make use of Octopus Travel's technology to provide its guests with a one-stop shop for hotel booking, sightseeing tours and private transfers tailored for their individual needs.

The marketing agreement signed with Octopus Travel allows CEB to integrate Octopus' internet-based hotel booking technology into the airline's website (www.cebupacificair.com). This allows Cebu Pacific travelers to make real time room reservations in 21,000 hotels and 3,000 apartments in 129 countries.

OctopusTravel.com accommodation ranges from budget to five star deluxe hotels and offers discounts of up to 70% off on standard hotel rates.

Lance Gokongwei, CEB president and CEO, said that this partnership will provide Cebu Pacific's guests more travel options and the convenience of booking their hotel requirements and vacations online.

"Our partnership with Octopus Travel reinforces our commitment to make travel more convenient and affordable for our passengers. With CEB's trademark offering of its low fares and Octopus Travel providing the travel solution, we are able to provide our guests more options for their travel needs. This tie-up will not only provide our travelers convenience but it will likewise strengthen the position of CEB as an innovator when it comes to travel," he said.

Cebu Pacific offers P99 Seat Sale

Cebu Pacific (CEB), the country's low-fare leader offers a Seat Sale of P99 to 9 of its domestic destinations for the next 9 days, for travel over a 99 day period.

The P99 Seat Sale is available for the following routes: Manila to Butuan, Zamboanga, Roxas, Cotabato, Laoag, Dipolog and Cebu to Davao. Sale period starts on June 28 to July 6, 2006 and travel date is from July 15 to October 21, 2006.

"With fares this low, it's time every JUAN flies," said Candice Iyog, CEB marketing director. "CEB is dedicated to its vision to make flying an option for more and more Filipinos. We believe that our Seat Sale on top of our year-round low fares will further boost local tourism as we continue to encourage travel during the off peak period," she added.

The P99 one-way fare is for immediate payment upon booking and is exclusive of surcharges and government tax.

Cebu Pacific adds 3rd daily frequency to Hong Kong

Cebu Pacific (CEB), the country's low fare leader, will increase frequency to Hong Kong from 17 to 21 times weekly beginning July 13. The additional frequency will translate to a 3x daily Manila-Hong Kong service for the airline.

The 3rd daily frequency leaves Manila at 7:25 pm, arrives in Hong Kong at 9:25pm and leaves Hong Kong at 10:10pm, arriving back in Manila at 12:10am. The lowest year round 'Go' fare for Manila – Hong Kong starts at P1,999 one way, exclusive of surcharges and government taxes.

"We are excited about adding more flights to Hong Kong because adding a third daily frequency will mean being able to offer our low fares to more people. Since the introduction of our 'Go' fares to Hong Kong in January of this year, we have seen a steady market growth in the sector and we expect this to continue as we offer more seats at the lowest year round fares," said Candice Iyog, CEB marketing director.

To enjoy the biggest discount, Iyog emphasized on planning ahead and booking in advance. "It's never too early to book your flight and the best way to get the lowest 'Go' fares is still through our website (cebupacificair.com)," she added.

Cebu Pacific’s brand new A319 flies to Dumaguete

Cebu Pacific (CEB) flies its brand new Airbus A319 for the first time today, July 3, 2006, between Manila and Dumaguete.

Cebu Pacific flies to Dumaguete City daily. The flight leaves Manila at 12:25pm arriving in Dumaguete at 1:40pm and leaves Dumaguete at 2:10pm arriving in Manila at 3:25pm.

"We are excited to fly our brand new Airbus A319 to Dumaguete because we believe that it's a market where travel can be easily stimulated with our year-round low fares. This is great news to all guests who are traveling for business or pleasure. Flying the A319 effectively increases our capacity by 36% which means that we will be able to carry more guests to Dumaguete and its nearby towns," Candice Iyog, CEB marketing director said.

The 150-seater Airbus A319 aircraft is known for its low maintenance and fuel cost efficiency. These operational savings allows CEB to continue offering its trademark low fares to its customers.

"Our lowest permanent 'Go' fare to Dumaguete is only P568 one-way. It's always been our vision to make flying an option for more Filipinos so now with our lowest fares and our brand new aircraft we believe it's time every JUAN flies," she added.

The easiest way to grab the lowest 'Go' fare is through CEB's website www.cebupacificair.com. The 'Go' fares are exclusive of surcharges and government tax.

Cebu Pacific achieves record market share of more than 41%

Cebu Pacific (CEB), the country's low fare leader, registered a record high domestic market share of more than 41% for the month of June. The market share figure relates to all competitive domestic jet markets and is the highest level ever reported in the more than 10 year history of the airline.

Historically June is a lean travel month but CEB also reported a load factor of more than 79% for the same period carrying 65% more domestic passengers in June 2006 than in June 2005. CEB market share for June 2005 was 31%.

The steady growth in market share and load factor can be attributed to the more aggressive pricing strategy that the airline has adopted, starting with the launch of its 'Go' fares in November 2005. CEB also offered 10 peso and 1 peso promo fares in March 2006. CEB had a further 2 Airbus A319 aircraft join its fleet in June replacing retiring DC9 aircraft. By the end of July CEB will be operating an all Airbus fleet and it will have the youngest fleet in the Philippines and one of the youngest in Asia.

"Cebu Pacific has always been committed to serve the Filipino. Our vision is to make it possible for every Juan to fly by offering the lowest fares possible to wherever Cebu Pacific operates. And now with our brand new, bigger Airbus planes, we will be able to offer more seats at lower fares to the public," Lance Y. Gokongwei, CEB President and CEO said.

He continued, "We are very much encouraged by the growth in traffic since the introduction of 'Go' fares and the various seat sales because we see that domestic tourism can be stimulated even during the lean season. Very importantly this also means that we as a country can develop tourism to become a year-round industry."

Cebu Pacific now flying to Dipolog

Cebu Pacific (CEB) adds another route to its domestic service with its three times weekly service between Manila and Dipolog City starting today, July 13, 2006.

The Manila-Dipolog service departs Manila every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 11:45am, arriving in Dipolog at 1pm and leaves Dipolog at 1:30pm to arrive back in Manila at 2:45pm.

Candice Iyog, CEB's marketing director, said that their Manila-Dipolog service reinforces the airlines' commitment to strengthen local tourism in the country.

"Dipolog is known for its sardine industry and numerous tourist spots like the Linabo Peak, Sungkilaw falls, Cogon Jungle and the renowned Dakak Beach Resort which is located in the nearby city of Dapitan. It also showcases year-round festivities and presents itself as one of the major trade hubs in Mindanao. With the recent success of its Biyahe Na Zamboanga Peninsula regional showcase and the Hudyaka Festival, we believe that the "Bottled Sardine Capital" of the Philippines can become a major gateway for tourism and business in Mindanao," said Iyog.

The Manila – Dipolog route will be serviced by the CEB's brand-new Airbus A319 aircraft with a 150-seating capacity.

Cebu Pacific flies brand new A319 to Cotabato

Cebu Pacific (CEB) flies its brand new Airbus A319 to Cotabato for the first time today, July 14, 2006. The new aircraft will service the Manila-Cotabato route every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, leaving Manila at 11:45am, arriving in Cotabato at 1:20pm, and leaving Cotabato at 1:50pm to arrive back in Manila at 3:25pm.

"CEB is dedicated to the development and growth of local tourism. Our vision is to make travel more affordable for every Filipino or for every "Juan". And to realize this vision, Cebu Pacific started its re-fleeting program last year and has since then taken delivery of 9 brand new Airbus planes. With our new and more fuel efficient planes we will be able to offer year-round low fares, not to mention the comfort and feel of flying in a new aircraft." Candice Iyog, CEB marketing director said.

The 150-seater Airbus A319 aircraft is known for its low maintenance and fuel cost efficiency. These operational savings allows CEB to continue offering its trademark value fares to its customers.

"Our lowest 'Go' fare to Cotabato starts at P868 only for one-way travel. This is the lowest regular fare to Cotabato in the market today. We are confident that our year-round low fare offering will help stimulate more traffic to Cotabato and the region, and will help contribute to its development in terms of business and tourism," Iyog added.

Cebu Pacific adds flights to Cagayan de Oro, Tacloban and Tagbilaran

Cebu Pacific adds flights to Cagayan de Oro, Tacloban and Tagbilaran to meet demand

Cebu Pacific (CEB) has announced that it will add one flight each to its Manila-Tacloban, Tagbilaran and Cagayan de Oro routes to meet the increasing demand of passengers availing of the airline's 'Go' fares.

Starting August 17, 2006, CEB's service will rise from 14 to 21 flights weekly for Manila-Tacloban and Cagayan de Oro, while Manila-Tagbilaran will increase from 7 to 14 flights weekly.

This comes after the airline introduced its reduced 'Go' fares last June 2, 2006, where the lowest 'Go' fares were brought down by as much as 43%. Lowest 'Go' fares start at P568 for Manila-Tacloban and Tagbilaran and P868 for Manila-Cagayan de Oro. The 'Go' fares are exclusive of surcharges and government taxes.

"Since the introduction of our 'Go' fares, we have seen the steady growth in our passenger numbers not only during peak but even more so during the lean season. This is evident with our 41% market share for the month of June. With the additional daily frequency to Cagayan de Oro, Tacloban and Tagbilaran we will be able to offer more seats at the lowest fares which also means further stimulation of travel for these destinations." Candice Iyog, CEB marketing director said

Retired Major General Jovito Palparan Jr.

NOW, retired army general's war has gone into the legislative houses.

Stressing he despises anti-development legislators occupying sensitive positions in government enough to derail progress, the man maligned to be called "berdugo" intends to rise into the Senate while putting up a watch group to balance the same threat in Congress.

Retired Major General Jovito Palparan Jr., the nemesis of insurgents, activists and leftists now thrusts Bantay, a sectoral representative group committed to balance the threat of anti-development agents tilting the precarious balance for the real anti-development solons.

Elevating his anti-insurgency campaign after he laid down arms in his retirement, Maj. Gen. Palparan said he faced left-leaning partylist representatives then and would follow them in the Senate to uncovers their real desire to stall or totally shoot down development.

Development would be bad to them because with development, there is progress and issues gainst poverty would be useless, so they would not want that to happen, he pressed during a rare interview. 

To equalize this threat, Maj. Gen Palparan posts his group Bantay, a sector who has been active in the counter-insurgency fight.

I would count on the support from the police, military, barangay tanods, peace loving groups and support groups who have benefited from the peace as an product of our efforts, he said.

Palparan, who had successful stints as commanding general for army's 7th and 8th Infantry Divisions admits his quixotic role against insurgency has reaped for him national and international indignation instead of medals.

The fear that people get when they hear his name may have been an effect of what he called as insurgency as a psychological war.

Evrytime he finishes his tour of duty, he also flushes insurgency or disperses them to nearby safer regions. 

During the interview with the Cagayan de Oro born retired warrior who has reaped so much criticisms and monikers ranging from the torturer to the butcher hinted that all the "insinuations may be products of a psychological war."

"If all they said were true, how could I get as many votes to put me up as partylist representative in areas of my previous assignments," he asked. (PIA)

Automated Election in the Philippines

NOTWITHSTANDING the minute problems with the country's preparation for its first automated elections, Bohol Commission of Election (Comelec) Supervisor and lawyer Eliseo Labaria is confident lights still a green.

Speaking at the weekly Kapihan sa PIA, Atty. Labaria said that apart from nearly half of the Precinct Count Optical Scanner (PCOS) to be delivered yet and the trainings for technicians delayed, the move to fully automate the country's electoral system is in full steam.

The historic move to change from the manual to automated system will hasten the process and assure us credible results eliminating the insinuations of fraud, he claimed.

According to research, the longest time for national manual elections to declare a winner was 42 days whereas in the automation, winners are declared quickly as the transmission of results are done automatically.

Erasing all doubts about a bug or a program error, the poll office top man said in requests of recall, the local authorities can proceed to manually count the ballots, if there are questions about the electronic counting.

He said the PCOS copies the ballots optically and stores them in the PCOS databanks so a digital counting can be facilitated.

Over the threats of power outage, Atty. Labaria revealed that the PCOS come with a backup power through a battery that can last from 12 to 14 hours, more than sufficient to cover for the 11-hour voting and counting time it would need for the automated elections in the precincts.

"That provision is for areas where there are no power connections and electricity," he stressed.

By February, Atty Labaria said, local COMELEC would start the trainings and the information dissemination in Bohol.

He also assured voters and the teachers who would handle their poll duty that the PCOS would be very user friendly and easy to use even as he said interest groups have already tied up with them to help in the information campaign.

Pending the COMELEC guidelines, information officer Juvenal Beniga also assures that they would put up the usual aired information drives at the Comelec Hour on Bohols top radios. (PIA)