MANILA -- Malacanang is expecting something positive in the ongoing meeting between government officials and representatives of flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) as well as pilots association in connection to the mass resignation of pilots that affect the operations of the airline.
Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda on Monday said he has not received words from Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa yet but the Palace is optimistic that both parties will be able to settle their issues.
“We are hoping that by today or through subsequent meetings the two parties can arrive at an amicable settlement,” Lacierda said.
He stressed it is important that the issue of PAL and its pilots be settled because it affects travelers and the tourism industry.
“We hope it will come to that settlement because the overriding concern right now is the riding public who will be severely affected if this situation continues,” he said.
President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III on Sunday tasked Ochoa, and three departments including labor, justice and transport to mediate with the problems of PAL and its pilot to avoid further interruption of flights. (Jill Beltran/Sunnex)