Manila: Direct flights from Cebu and Manila to eight destinations are scheduled to operate in the last quarter of 2025, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the new and returning routes include Firefly's Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)-Cebu, set for inauguration on December 2, and Jetstar's Perth (Australia)-Manila on November 27. Additional routes include Jetstar's Brisbane (Australia)-Cebu on December 3, Vietnam Airlines' Hanoi (Vietnam)-Cebu on December 2, and VietJet's Saigon (Vietnam)-Manila on November 22. AirAsia will also launch Cebu-Kuala Lumpur and Cebu-Macau routes on November 15, while Philippine Airlines plans to operate Cebu-Guam flights starting December 16.
The DOT emphasized that connectivity remains robust in Cebu, despite the recent typhoons and earthquakes that resulted in significant destruction in some parts of the island. Mactan-Cebu International Airport continues normal operations, and major sea routes have resumed, ensuring that travel plans can proceed.
In a statement, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco encouraged all stakeholders to maintain their planned visits and inaugural flights to Cebu. She acknowledged that some groups have chosen to defer travel but assured them that assistance for rebooking and itinerary adjustments is available. She emphasized that the primary commitment is safety, and the message to travelers is confidence in the destination.
Frasco further noted that Cebu is moving forward, with gateways and core tourism areas open, and expressed optimism that recovery will lead to renewed growth.
