Cebu Pacific (CEB), the Philippines’ leading airline, has announced a remarkable partnership with United Filipino Global (UFG), a non-governmental organization dedicated to supporting Filipino migrant workers.
The agreement reflects the airline’s efforts to provide swift support and connections to over 1 million Filipinos and many expats in the UAE
Cebu Pacific special flights for overseas Filipinos
At the heart of this collaboration is a commitment to operate special flights in times of natural disasters, emergencies, and critical situations, providing immediate humanitarian assistance and transportation for distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
This significant initiative, formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), aims to enhance the welfare of OFWs and underscores CEB’s dedication to their well-being.
CEB, United Filipino Global partnership
The partnership is designed to provide comprehensive support for OFWs through a variety of impactful initiatives. These initiatives include offering complimentary flights to selected OFW beneficiaries, facilitating easier reunions with their families in the Philippines.
Moreover, the partnership will actively promote potential scholarship opportunities for the children of OFWs, ensuring access to education for a brighter future.
In times of natural disasters, emergencies, and critical situations, CEB will deploy special flights to provide immediate humanitarian assistance and transportation for distressed OFWs.
Responsible air travel practices
Cebu Pacific will also launch educational campaigns to educate OFWs about safe and responsible air travel practices, prioritizing their well-being.
Additionally, the airline will actively support OFW families and their children in participating in internship programs designed for those aspiring to join the aviation industry as flight crew and attendants.
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Candice Iyog, CEB Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Cebu Pacific looks forward to this collaboration with UFG, with the objective of assisting OFWs on their journey. Our commitment extends beyond providing flights; it encompasses creating a meaningful experience for our kababayans. We recognize the challenges they face and are providing the necessary support, alongside our commitment to ensuring air travel is safe, reliable, and affordable.”
UFG’s president, Gemma Sotto, echoed her optimism about the partnership, saying, “With this collaboration, we hope that our upcoming programs will be felt and embraced. We aspire to be an instrument for our OFWs and their children, continuing to make a positive impact on their lives. We eagerly anticipate launching our programs in collaboration with Cebu Pacific.”
OFWs repatriation mission
Over the years, CEB has undertaken numerous flights to repatriate distressed OFWs back to the Philippines. Notably, in 2021, CEB repatriated over 11,000 Filipinos from Dubai and the Middle East who were affected by COVID-19 lockdowns through a series of Bayanihan flights. Demonstrating a firm commitment to facilitating travel for all, Cebu Pacific is steadfastly expanding its global presence.
Cebu Pacific flight capacity
The airline is boosting its international capacity by an impressive 63 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels. By the close of 2023, Cebu Pacific will have added over 700,000 additional international seats compared to the previous year. This expansion is set to substantially enrich travel choices for the vibrant Filipino community worldwide and extend a warm welcome to travelers of diverse nationalities.
Currently, CEB operates flights to 35 domestic and 25 international destinations spanning across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
