Their Perth time with PAL
What does taking the new direct flight to Perth mean to those who experienced it? We asked passengers, including the pilot who was in command.
Capt. Stanley K. Ng, President and COO, Philippine Airlines
I feel privileged to have served as pilot of the historic nonstop inaugural flight PR 223 to Perth. It made me realize that I missed flying a plane. Maybe I should do this more often in the future.
This new route expands Philippine Airlines’ footprint in Australia, making PAL the largest airline offering the most routes to this very important region of the world. The flight symbolizes PAL’s determination to grow its network and conquer new markets. We welcome Australians to what is now the shortest hop to the island wonders of the Philippines.
Atty. Carlos Luis Fernandez, PAL senior VP and general counsel
The inaugural flight is meaningful to us. It is PAL’s first new route since the pandemic. In fact, it was originally scheduled in March 2020. The flight symbolizes the resiliency of the flag carrier. A concrete manifestation of PAL’s continuing journey to full recovery.
Perth is a wonderful and beautiful city. It offers the best of many worlds. It’s a relaxed and laidback community, and a thriving capital city with world-class infrastructure; fabulous restaurants and coffee shops; and a place where people put a huge premium on taking care of their environment. I loved walking around the city, particularly along the banks of the Swan River in the morning where flocks of beautiful birds fly around.
Ambassador Delia Domingo Albert, Former Secretary of Foreign Affairs
The Manila-Perth inaugural flight was a sentimental journey for me. I opened the first honorary consulate in Perth in 1996 (I was Philippine ambassador to Australia from 1995 to 2001) to attend to the growing needs of the growing Filipino community in Western Australia, composed mainly of mining workers.
My mandate that time was clear: to implement the newly signed MOU on Defence Cooperation with Australia and promote investments in mining, as provided by a 1995 Mining Act, which allowed 100 percent foreign equity in mining projects.
I was delighted to see the progress made by the Filipino migrant community in their economic and social lives.
Irene Tan Luy, Treasurer, Century Park Hotel
For me, the Perth flight means connecting to our kababayans in this part of the world. I didn’t expect a lot of kababayans here in Perth welcoming us with open arms! They were so warm and accommodating.
For first-timers, I would recommend touring the good wineries to try locally produced wine. The Caversham Wildlife Park is a must-see, especially for families with kids. And, of course, what is a trip to Australia without fish and chips!
Fish and chips is a signature dish of Australia, which was invented in 1860 in England by a guy named Joseph Main, who wanted to provide a nice, warm meal to factory workers. This is usually served in a carton box, with salt and vinegar or tartar sauce.
Atty. Mae Elaine Bathan, Undersecretary of Tourism
My Perth experience was a working trip, which turned out to be fun as well. I found myself in awe of the metropolis and its beautiful landscape. My first day started with lunch outdoors at the Kings Park with its cool breeze made warm with the company of new friends made during the flight. We took a walk to the memorial marker where I savored the wonderful view of the city.
Mornings were spent walking along Swan Lake and Elizabeth Quay against the orders of my physiatrist. The picturesque view made me totally forget I was on rehab for a foot injury.
This trip allowed me to meet fellow Filipinos and Australians. I find this as the highlight of my trip. The forging of new cultures and building of friendships was brought about by the opening of doors between the Philippines and Western Australia and I am most grateful to PAL for making this happen. It has not only opened opportunities for tourism to flourish in our country but it will make it easier for families to connect.
Teresa Loyzaga
The first time I saw Perth, I said, wow, this is the place I would like to live in. Perth really feels like home. So from Sydney, where I spent five years, I moved to Perth in 2005. This city has everything I want and need.