Cebu Pacific, the country’s leading budget carrier, is scaling up operations at its Clark International Airport hub with the upcoming launch of direct flights to Palawan’s El Nido and Coron.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, Jan. 28, the company said it will launch daily service to the new destinations starting on March 30.

“Cebu Pacific is proud to position our Clark hub as a premier gateway to the Philippines' most iconic destinations,” said Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer Xander Lao. 

“With its growing network, Clark has become the ideal entry point for travelers seeking to explore the vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage our country has to offer,” he added.

Cebu Pacific’s expansion of its Clark hub comes after an advisory that the carrier will gradually relocate its turboprop aircraft operations out of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

This is aligned with the resolution issued by the Manila Slot Coordination Committee (MSCC) to decongest NAIA and optimize airport capacity.

Cebu Pacific earlier announced that it will relocate its Cebgo flights for Masbate and Siargao from NAIA Terminal 2 to Clark in Pampanga. This will also be effective on March 30.

With the addition of new flights in its Clark hub, Cebu Pacific now operates 15 domestic and international destinations in the airport—becoming the largest airline operator in Clark.

“We have made investments in Clark for more than a decade now…It’s important for the airline to continue to establish and make Clark an important part of our operations,” said Lao, noting the value in serving North and Central Luzon, alongside Northern Metro Manila.

The budget carrier’s upcoming flights to El Nido and Coron will be operated by Cebgo, a unit of Cebu Pacific.

This is in addition to the existing AirSwift flights to the two Palawan destinations. To recall, the Gokongwei-led Cebu Pacific inked a P1.75 billion deal to purchase the airline last year.

Lao said this move is meant to optimize the market, pointing out that there is a high demand in beach and leisure destinations.

“We are committed to making travel more accessible, convenient, and memorable, ensuring every Juan can discover the unparalleled beauty of the Philippines,” he emphasized.

Cebu Pacific said these new flights under its growing network of routes will also enable easier access for international in-bound travelers.

The airline operates in 26 international destinations spanning Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

Earlier this month, Cebu Pacific officially launched direct flights to Saporro, Japan—the sole Philippine carrier to offer this route.