PAL launches direct Cebu-Ho Chi Minh flights

PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) has officially launched its first nonstop service between Cebu and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, marking a significant milestone in the flag carrier’s efforts to expand regional connectivity and support tourism growth in Central Visayas.

The inaugural flight, PR 587, took off from Mactan-Cebu International Airport on May 2, 2025, and received a ceremonial send-off with a water cannon salute and cake-cutting ceremony.

The event was attended by top executives from PAL, Aboitiz InfraCapital GMCAC, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority, the Department of Tourism and travel industry stakeholders.

“We are thrilled to celebrate our inaugural flight from Cebu to Ho Chi Minh City and kick off a new chapter in PAL’s ongoing commitment to expanding regional connectivity,” said Capt. Stanley K. Ng, PAL president and chief operating officer. “This landmark Cebu-Vietnam route strengthens bilateral ties between the Philippines and Vietnam while offering our passengers convenient travel between two of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic cities.”

The Cebu-Ho Chi Minh City flights will operate three times weekly, departing Cebu every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, and returning from Ho Chi Minh City every Monday, Thursday and Saturday. The new route will be serviced by Airbus A321 aircraft, accommodating up to 199 passengers in both business and economy class.

Lapu-Lapu City Representative Cynthia K. Chan expressed gratitude to PAL for supporting Cebu’s global

tourism profile.

“Thank you for your help in promoting our city and province to the world and for solidifying our reputation as a top tourist destination in Asia,” she said.

DOT 7 Director Judy dela Cruz Gabato added that the new route is expected to boost international tourist arrivals, particularly from the Vietnamese market.

The Cebu-Saigon route complements PAL’s current eight weekly flights between Manila and Ho Chi Minh City. The airline, which pioneered air travel between the Philippines and Vietnam in 1985, continues to expand in the region with upcoming launches of 10 weekly Manila-Hanoi flights on June 1 and a new Manila-Da Nang route beginning July 1.

PAL’s strategic route expansion reinforces its role as a key enabler of regional economic growth and cross-cultural exchange within Southeast Asia. |

/ KOC