MANILA, Philippines - The domestic air travel industry continues to grow and help drive local economies as Airphil Express opens up new routes, this time servicing the Manila-Cotabato leg and vice-versa.
Airphil Express is currently serving 26 domestic destinations throughout the country with daily flights to Tuguegarao, Naga, Legazpi, San Jose (Mindoro), Catarman, Calbayog, Tacloban, Masbate, Boracay (via Caticlan), and Kalibo, among others.
It now also serves two international flights: Singapore and Hongkong.
The recently designated flight to Cotabato is seen to increase business agility in the Central Mindanao region while also providing alternative tourism options for travelers.
Cotabato City is regarded as an emerging growth center, with highly urbanized districts that provide locals and outsiders a productive ground for investment, while serving as a portal to neighboring areas rich in natural resources.
Aside from trade opportunities, Cotabato City and nearby places offer variety in terms of tourism and adventure: cultural activities, historical and architectural landmarks, scenic vistas, and must-visit destinations, including the Kutawto network of caves and Lake Sebu in South Cotabato where groups can enjoy an exhilarating zipline ride across seven waterfalls.
“Opening up the Cotabato route is part of our airport operation expansion. We want to give the market an expanded list of air transportation choices, while giving value to the price they pay out,” said Alfredo Herrera, Airphil Express SVP for marketing and sales.
The carrier’s jet operations from Cotabato to Manila, utilizing a new Airbus 320, gained favorable feedback from outbound passengers in Cotabato when it was inaugurated recently.
Airphil Express flies daily from Manila to Cotabato at 9:45 a.m. and leaves Cotabato for Manila at 11:50 a.m.