EIGHT years ago, I was lucky to be part of a media group that tagged along with Philippine Airlines (PAL) executives all the way to the headquarters of Bombardier Inc., the Aerospace and transportation manufacturer in Toronto, Canada, to receive the turboprop airplanes that would revolutionize inter-island flights in the Philippines.
With us is no other than former Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, then PAL President and COO, who received the first Q400 New Generation aircraft at the Bombardier Delivery Center. This had been witnessed by Filipino diplomats, journalists, Bombardier executives and Filipino-Canadian aircraft builders. Our group also includes journalists such as Sonia Soto, Irish Gonzales, Doris Dumlao, Neri Garcia, and Elsie Jolingan.
PAL has then embarked in a refleeting program to reassert its dominance in the domestic market given the development of various airports and the increasing number of tourists among the islands in the country such as Boracay, Siargao, and many more.
Currently, PAL’s 86-seater Bombardier Q400s link Clark International Airport (CRK) to Siargao, Palawan, and Batanes. And we are expecting more flights to other island destinations when turboprop flights will be transferred to Clark.
At the Bombardier Headquarters in Canada, I came to know that Filipinos had a hand in putting together PAL’s Bombardier Q400s, now with a brand name De Havilland, which acquired production of the Q400s relaunching it as Dash 8 aircraft. Production of the Q400s, now Dash 8, will continue under De Havilland.
Some 200 Filipino mechanics and engineers along with other Asian mechanics built the Q400s. At least 20 percent of Bombardier workforce are Filipinos.
The development of inter-island flights has been a significant factor in boosting tourism and connectivity within island regions. One of the key benefits of inter-island flights is that they provide travelers with greater flexibility and convenience.
With more flights available, travelers can easily hop from one island to another, exploring different landscapes, cultures, and experiences. This is particularly useful for travelers with limited time or those who want to make the most of their island-hopping adventure.
In recent years, there has been an increase in demand for inter-island flights, driven in part by the growth of tourism in island regions. To meet this demand, airlines have been adding more flights and routes to their schedules.
Clark to Siargao, Palawan, Batanes
On February 18-20,2025, PAL invited us to a three-day familiarization tour of Siargao Island – the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines.”
And presto – a Bombardier Q400 greeted me at the Clark tarmac, the very same aircraft that we received in Canada back in August 2017.
The Clark-Siargao flight was a breeze and as the aircraft prepares for landing, we were treated to a spectacular view of green canopy that blanketed the ranges of Siargao Island. From above, the palm-filled mountains of Siargao is like a green carpet laid out as far as the eyes can see.
Siargao Island, located in the eastern coast of the Philippines, is indeed emerging as a top tourism destination, particularly among surfers and beach lovers. Siargao is a surfing paradise, known for its powerful waves. Cloud 9 is a famous surf spot and hosts international surfing competitions.
Other than surfing, the white sand beaches beckon — Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island. One can also explore the island’s hidden gems, such as waterfalls, caves, and scenic viewpoints while enjoying fresh seafood, local cuisine, and the island’s vibrant nightlife. A range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts, are available to suit different budgets.
Siargao Island’s unique combination of natural beauty, exciting activities, and warm hospitality make it an attractive destination for travelers. As tourism infrastructure continues to develop, Siargao is poised to become a premier tourist destination in the Philippines.
PAL flies to Siargao every Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays via Clark airport. Our gratitude to Ms. Anne Tiongco, PAL VP for Corporate Affairs for the wonderful experience.
FORMER DOTr SEC. BAUTISTA CHECKS Q400. Former Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista checks on a brand new Bombardier Q400 turboprop aircraft at the Bombardier Headquarters in Toronto, Canada, in 2017. The Bombardier Q400s, now De Havilland Dash 8, are the workhorse of Philippine Airlines (PAL) in its inter-island flights.