MANILA, Philippines – Philippine Airlines (PAL) is gearing up in full force to support next generation Filipino athletes as it adds more flights to Laoag, Ilocos Norte for the Palarong Pambansa 2025 opening on May 24 and concluding in May 31.
The country’s national carrier has added 74 more flights to carry some 6,800 passengers, including the athletes, coaches, and officials who join the biennial multi-sport event. PAL’s ramped-up operations include special and chartered flights direct from Cebu, Davao, and Legazpi (Daraga) to Laoag, providing crucial air links from the rest of the archipelago.
The additional flights have doubled PAL’s Manila-Laoag run from two to four roundtrips a day between May 24 and June 2 for the opening and closing of the games.
“As national flag carrier of the country, it’s an honor for us to be included and to be actively assisting this historic event,” said PAL Vice President for Sales and Distribution Justin Warby. “We aim to make traveling easier and more convenient for all participants through the special flights that we’ve included.”
The Palarong Pambansa is an annual national sports festival organized by the Department of Education, in which the country’s best student-athletes from 17 divisions participate in various sporting events. The tournament this year is being hosted in Ilocos Norte, where activities are being held in various venues around the province.
“It is a privilege to transport our Filipino athletes on our flights, and we wish them the best of luck in the games,” Warby said.
With the added air operations, PAL reinforces its commitment to nation-building through sports and youth development, ensuring safe and seamless travel for thousands attending the week-long sporting spectacle.