The nation’s flag carrier, Philippine Airlines (PAL), is set to reopen the PAL Aviation School as a prominent training center for new pilots. This comes under a strategic partnership with the globally recognized flight training organization Airways Aviation Group, to deliver best-in-class pilot training as part of its long-term commitment to operational excellence and safety.
Following a meticulous evaluation process, Airways Aviation’s Australia-based training academy was selected for its strong track record in delivering high-quality, internationally aligned pilot training programs.
“Airways Aviation met our stringent requirements on safety culture and competency-based training methodologies. We value the importance of in-house training shaping pilots with a global outlook armed with exceptional skills,” said PAL president and chief operating officer Capt. Stanley Ng.
In the words of PAL OIC executive vice president–general counsel Carlos Luis Fernandez, “This meaningful collaboration with Airways Aviation draws from the deep well of expertise and shared commitment to excellence.”
Romy Hawatt, founder and chairman of Airways Aviation, had this to say: “We are honored to be selected as the official training provider for the next generation of PAL pilots. This partnership is not only a recognition of our global training capabilities, but a testament to the shared values and vision that bind our two organizations. Together, we are investing in the future of aviation.”
A concluding message was given by Janet Dalby, chief executive officer for Australasia and the Pacific, Airways Aviation Group: “This collaboration allows us to support PAL with the latest in aviation education technology, while also contributing to national workforce development objectives in the Philippines.”
The first group of cadets will commence foundation training and undergo assessment and selection processes in the country, followed by further training in aviation theory and practical training at Airways Aviation’s Australian campuses, where they will receive comprehensive instruction supported by expert faculty and industry-leading technology.
Lastly, this partnership also represents a significant step forward in strengthening education bonds between the Philippines and Australia. More than a training program, it’s a strategic alliance built on trust, ambition and a commitment to aviation excellence.
Still on PAL — celebrating its 84th anniversary with a legacy of bringing the best of the Philippines to the world through its specially curated dessert selection. Available until May 31, 2025 in select destinations, the new culinary set highlights how food can evoke nostalgia and tell stories of heritage and experience.
The special anniversary desserts include the Trio bite-sized dessert plate, consisting of Classic Leche Flan topped with Cantaloupe Syrup, Candied Orange and Coconut Cream. The Southern Chocolate Ganache is a velvety-smooth serving of decadent dessert made with luscious chocolate from premium cacao beans sourced from skilled artisans in Davao. The Pacencia with Mango Butter Cream Filling consists of Filipino meringue cookies filled with the country’s world-renowned sweetest mangoes. Every dessert has been meticulously created to embody PAL’s commitment to providing excellent service, as conceptualized in its “Care that comes from the Heart” promise.
Try one, try all!
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Surprise! Surprise!
It was indeed a pleasant surprise when Lidwina Sanchez, all of 88 summers, sauntered into Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino to find a sumptuous dinner awaiting her! A wonderful meal had been prepared by her beloved children. The entire Sanchez clan put their heads together to produce that magical evening, with some siblings garbed in red to mark the milestone. When it came to expressing warm and loving greetings, youngest son Eric designed a video from the US.
As for celebrant Lidwina, who’s still busy as a bee managing OCS Lending as president, she sprung her own surprise by joining the graceful post-dinner dancing! Cheers to the celebrant — many more years!