By Dom Galeon Last Tuesday, Cebu Pacific became the first and only low-cost airline to fly direct from Manila to Melbourne, Australia. Cebu Pacific will fly to Melbourne three times a week (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday) to bring more local travelers to the land of many wonders. (DOM GALEON/ MANILA BULLETIN) And among the world’s most beautiful destinations, Melbourne is one of the places that travelers should visit to satisfy their wanderlusts. With its vibrant culture and interesting heritage, this Australian city certainly deserves a spot in everyone’s travel bucket lists. Cebu Pacific VP for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog said during the inaugural flight that this new route will be good for the country’s tourism industry. “This will enable more Australian travelers—from adventure-seekers to leisure tourists to families on holiday—to discover the paradise that is the Philippines,” she told the media and those who booked for the maiden flight aboard one of Cebu Pacific’s A330. Apart from this, more Filipinos will also have access to Melbourne’s tourist destinations, as well as its economy. “This will enable more Filipino immigrants, or Australians of Filipino descent, to discover their roots or visit family and friends more often,” Candice added. “This will enable Filipino exporters and Australian investors to boost trade and commerce between the Philippines and Australia. This will enable more opportunities and strengthen economic and cultural between our two countries, through what we call ‘The CEB effect.’” “The CEB effect” refers to the benefits that can be harnessed through the affordable and accessible flights offered by Cebu Pacific, with one-way fares on between Manila and Melbourne for as low as P9,500 all-in, which is 60 percent lower than prevailing rates of other airlines. Now, more Filipinos can see the beauty of one of the world’s most livable cities—with Melbourne ranking number one in 2017.