Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced that it will begin the gradual transfer of several turboprop-operated domestic flights from Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA | MNL | RPLL) to Clark International Airport (CRK | RPLC) and Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA | CEB | RPVM) beginning 26 October 2025. This move is in line with the Philippine government’s directive to decongest NAIA by relocating turboprop operations to alternative regional hubs.
As part of this strategic realignment, PAL will ramp up flight frequencies and launch new domestic routes from its Clark and Cebu hubs. From Clark, the airline will operate twice-daily flights to Busuanga (USU | RPVV) and Basco (BSO | RPUO), while maintaining daily service to Siargao (IAO | RPNS). The new Clark–Basco service will replace the existing Manila–Basco route.
Meanwhile, Cebu will see a significant increase in turboprop activity. Flights to Busuanga and Siargao will each increase to three times daily, reinforcing Cebu’s role as a central hub for Visayas and Mindanao travelers. PAL is also launching a new Cebu–Calbayog route with four weekly flights, replacing the Manila–Calbayog connection. Passengers from Manila can still reach Calbayog (CYP | RPVC) via convenient connections through Cebu.
Despite the shift, PAL will continue to operate daily flights from Manila to popular leisure destinations, including Busuanga (Coron) and Siargao, albeit at reduced frequencies. In addition, the airline will maintain three weekly flights to Antique (San Jose | EUQ | RPVS) and four weekly flights to Catarman (CRM | RPVF) from Manila.
“We seek the cooperation and understanding of the flying public as we work closely with aviation authorities, industry stakeholders and local government units to ensure a smooth transition. This network realignment allows us to serve our passengers more efficiently. By strengthening Cebu and Clark as alternative hubs, we are building a more reliable and sustainable domestic network for the long term,” according to PAL Executive Vice President / Chief Operating Officer Atty. Carlos Luis Fernandez.
The initiative follows the government’s earlier mandate to reduce turboprop flights at NAIA by 30% starting March 2025. PAL reiterated its commitment to updating passengers regularly and providing assistance throughout the transition.