Cebu’s art and music enthusiasts had a cultural treat when Philippine Airlines (PAL) flew a select group to Laoag, Ilocos from our Queen City of the South. The occasion? To experience a weekend of art, music and culture.

PAL’s unique 86-seater Dash 8-400 NG with Registration RP-C5911 took off from Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) at 8:45 a.m. with an artsy passenger list consisting of art patrons, music enthusiasts, the leisure set and a group of social media influencers, all anticipating an exhilarating event.

This was a special Cebu-Laoag-Cebu flight in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte and Philippine Airlines, reflecting the flag carrier’s commitment to promoting regional connectivity and boosting local tourism, with a focus on the art scene.

In the words of PAL president and chief operating officer (COO) Capt. Stanley K. Ng: “We stand united with you in promoting domestic travel to the regional centers of the country. Local communities are the true frontlines of the Philippine economy, both for Cebu and Ilocos.”

This was his message during the send-off ceremony, which registered an impressive passenger load of 90 percent.

Over a May weekend, the City of Laoag celebrated the “Himala sa Buhangin Art and Music Festival,” allowing everyone to experience the best of Filipino talent and the warmth of Ilocano hospitality and local culture.

We ask PAL: Will these flights become regular or are they only for that event?