AirAsia senior leadership changes to drive growth and profitability in the Philippines

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AirAsia senior leadership changes to drive growth and profitability in the Philippines

AirAsia has appointed telecommunications executive Ricardo ‘Ricky’ P Isla as its new CEO of AirAsia Philippines.

Newly appointed AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla (third from left) is welcomed by AirAsia Philippines Board and Corporate Secretary Atty. Jomar Castillo (first from left), newly appointed AirAsia Philippines Chief Operating Officer Captain Dexter Comendador (second from left) and AirAsia Philippines Chairman Maan Hontiveros (fourth from left).

Mr Isla joins AirAsia after more than a decade of international product development, sales and distribution experience with telecommunications giant PLDT Global Corporation. In addition to his most recent role as Regional Head of Operations for United Kingdom and Europe, Mr Isla has held General Manager positions in its international retail business, as well as in the US, Italy and Singapore.

AirAsia Philippines Chairman Maan Hontiveros said, “I am thrilled to welcome Ricky to our senior leadership team. Ricky has an outstanding track record of leading and transforming businesses, especially when it comes to increasing revenue and market share, customer satisfaction and employee engagement. Together with his telecommunications background and global experience, we are confident he will provide the right foundation to steer AirAsia Philippines to even greater heights.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Captain Dexter Comendador for playing such a crucial part of AirAsia’s growth story in the Philippines. The board and I are confident that his love of people and exceptional flying acumen will prove extremely beneficial to our operations, and we look forward to continuing our work with him as AirAsia Philippines Chief Operations Officer.”

Newly appointed AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricardo ‘Ricky’ Isla

AirAsia Deputy Group CEO (Airlines) Bo Lingam said, “Ricky’s appointment as CEO comes at a time when low-cost carrier (LCC) growth in the Philippines hits an all-time high. AirAsia is on the cusp of developing something really special for Filipinos, and I’m confident that under Ricky’s guidance we will be in the best position to up the ante on our mission to further revolutionise affordable air travel in the Philippines.

“I want to thank Captain Dexter for his contribution as CEO, and ongoing dedication to our Allstars in the Philippines.”

Mr Isla graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University with a Bachelor of Science and Business Management and holds advanced management qualifications from the Asian Institute of Management.

Mr Isla commenced his role as CEO of AirAsia Philippines today.

AirAsia Philippines operates a fleet of 24 aircraft on more than 500 weekly domestic and international flights from its hubs in Manila, Clark, Cebu, and Kalibo.

For the latest AirAsia news, activities and promotions, follow AirAsia on Twitter (twitter.com/AirAsia), Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsiaPH) and Instagram (instagram.com/AirAsiaFilipino).

AirAsia is Bohol’s official airline partner for Sandugo Festival 2018

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World’s Best Low Cost Carrier celebrates with Boholanos

BOHOL, 28 July 2018 – AirAsia, the world’s best low-cost airline for 10 straight years running, is Bohol’s official airline partner for Sandugo Festival 2018.

The partnership signed in February by Bohol Provincial Governor Edgar Chatto and the airline’s CEO Captain Dexter Comendador involves joint brand advertising, promotional activities and campaigns, familiarization trips for consumer and trade associations, media, travel agencies, greater tourism development and route network synergy, joint roadshows to trade partners, and many more.

The Sandugo Festival pays tribute to the historical blood compact between Spanish and Filipino leaders. For this year's festivities with the theme Legacy @ 30: A 30th year of Sandugo Festival, AirAsia is a major and the only airline sponsor for the festival which showcases a series of events such as the search for Miss Bohol pageant. 

“It brings us so much pride to be your official carrier. Boholanos are known for their excellent service culture which is also one of the hallmarks of AirAsia’s brand of service.

It’s going to be an exciting time for all of us and we look forward to working even more closely with the provincial government and the various hotel and tourism stakeholders not only for this festival but throughout the year, ” AAP CEO Captain Dexter Comendador said.

AirAsia awarded this year’s winner of Miss Bohol, Ms. Raclaire Stephan Dinsay Cesar Trigo who hailed from the City of Tagbilaran with free flights and the title Miss AirAsia 2018 while offering special fares to encourage tourists to travel to Bohol.

To celebrate, AirAsia is offering promo fares from as low as P1,190, all-in, one-way for BIG Members and from P1,258, all-in, one-way for Non-Members are available for booking from 30 July until 5 August 2018 at www.airasia.com for travel period between 30 July 2018 to 31 January 31, 2018.

Keep updated with AirAsia’s latest promotion and activities via twitter (@AirAsiaFilipino), Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsiaPH) and on Instagram (@AirAsiaFilipino).

Celebrates a Decade of World's Best! #WeAreAllChampions AirAsia

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LONDON, 18 July 2018 – AirAsia has been named the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline for the tenth year in a row.

AirAsia won the accolade at the 2018 Skytrax World Airline Awards, held yesterday at The Langham, London.

Ms. Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach with (R-L) , Director of Flight Operations Gomer Monreal First Officer Khristine Boniel, Capt. Kintanar, flanked by Cabin Crew

Dubbed the ‘Oscars of the Aviation Industry’, the Skytrax Awards are the global benchmark of airline excellence with over surveyed worldwide by more than 105 nationalities, measuring standards across 49 key performance indicators of an airline’s frontline products and services.

AirAsia co-founder, Executive Chairman of AirAsia Group Berhad and Group CEO of AirAsia X Datuk Kamarudin Meranun accepted the award in London together with AirAsia’s long-serving Allstars from across the region.

The four selected Allstars were Acting Head of Ground Operations Ahmad Bin Ismail from Malaysia (17 years of service), Assistant Cabin Crew Manager Robert Anthony Gutierrez from the Philippines (7 years of service), Head of ICT Pipat Khunprakan from Thailand, AirAsia’s first staff in Thailand (15 years of service) and Assistant Flight Dispatch Manager Koji Kaneko who dispatched AirAsia Japan’s very first flight (4 years of service).

(Third from right standing) AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernandes, (Sixth from right standing) Founder of AirAsia Dato Pahamin Ab Rajab, AirAsia CEOs and Cabin Crew.

Datuk Kamarudin Meranun said, “I’m honored to celebrate our record-breaking tenth win today with our Allstars who have been with us on this journey since the early days. This moment feels surreal. I remember the ecstatic feeling of being named the world’s best low-cost airline for the very first time ten years ago. I would have never imagined we would remain the world’s best for a decade. Thank you for your tremendous love and support. We will continue to champion low fares and hopefully transform many more lives in the process.”

AirAsia X was also presented World’s Best Low-Cost Airline Premium Cabin for the sixth consecutive year. Chairwoman of AirAsia X Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz accepted the award for AirAsia X.

Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz said, “Any success and achievement by the AirAsia Group and AirAsia X Group is a direct contribution and value add of every Allstar. As such, it is important that levels of competency, efficiency, and performance be continuously enhanced and upgraded so that the companies will be able to maintain their world-class status in the highly competitive regional and global aviation industry. Everyone must strive to be an asset to the AirAsia Group and AirAsia X Group. Congratulations everyone!”

AirAsia also took home Asia’s Best Low-Cost Airline, received by Deputy Group CEO (Airline Business) Bo Lingam who joined AirAsia in 2001 as a Ground Operations Manager.

Bo Lingam said, “In my seventeen years at AirAsia, I have witnessed how AirAsia has realised the dreams of more than half a billion people, especially in Asean. We have connected people and places, we have created jobs across the region, we have enabled small businesses to grow, and we have contributed to tourism in Asean and beyond. Knowing we have made a difference makes all the battles worth fighting.”

In true One AirAsia spirit, the win was celebrated across the group in AirAsia offices in Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Jakarta, Manila, Bangalore and Nagoya, with a special live interactive show broadcasted on AirAsia’s Facebook page.

AirAsia also brings the celebration to major hub airports, namely KL International Airport 2 (KLIA2), Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, and Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok from 17 - 22 July, with boarding pass-enabled photobooths and a chance of winning tickets to their dream AirAsia destination.

As part of the celebration, AirAsia will be offering unbelievably low fares on 23 - 29 July on www.airasia.com and AirAsia mobile app. Guests also stand a chance to win one year of free flights* by participating in our #WeAreAllChampions social media contest. For more information, visit our Instagram (instagram.com/airasia) and Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsia). *Terms & conditions apply

Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach joined the #WeAreAllChampions celebration in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Filipina beauty queen and global model celebrity flew in to Malaysia at 7:10 AM today via AirAsia flight from Manila with pilot in command AirAsia Philippines CEO Captain Dexter Comendador. (see photo)

"Pia exudes confidence and is never afraid to express her opinion. I am honored to be her pilot when she flew in from Manila to Kuala Lumpur via AirAsia flight this morning, and very proud that a Filipina, our queen, who possess both beauty and brain, is joining our celebration," Comendador said.

AirAsia now flies from Clark to Taipei - Grand launch for the world's best low cost carrier's first international flight from Clark hub

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CLARK, Pampanga - AirAsia, the World’s Best Low Cost Carrier, is officially painting Clark skies red with the airline's first international route from Clark airport.

AirAsia flight Z2 5126 with pilot in command AirAsia Philippines Chief Executive Officer Captain Dexter Comendador left Clark International Airport at 5:25 PM and arrived in Taipei's Taoyuan International Airport at 7:30PM.

AirAsia Philippines CEO Captain Dexter Comendador said, "We are officially painting the skies of Clark airport with AirAsia's iconic color. Our return to international skies via Clark hub reaffirms our commitment to travelers in Central and Northern Luzon and Metro Manila who truly deserve nothing but only the best quality service, affordable airfare and efficient connectivity."

To celebrate the airline's Clark - Taipei route, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office officers and Philippine government officials led by TECO Deputy Representative, Minister James Chu, Regional DOT Director Carol Uy and CIAC President Alex Cauguiran joined the send-off ceremonies at the airport with AirAsia Philippines Chairperson Maan Hontiveros.

Taiwan inspired decorations adorned the airport with passengers and guests enjoying Taiwanese street food and entertainment.

Aside from Clark - Taipei route, AirAsia also flies to domestic destinations of Iloilo, Caticlan, Davao, Cebu and Tacloban from Clark.

"It feels so good to be back where we started. From two planes in Clark in 2012 to 20 jets as of today and we expect our fleet to grow to 70 planes in the next 10 years, we are thrilled to be here again and begin another journey to serve, empower and enable every traveler to dream big and connect across Asean, Asia and the world," Comendador said.

AirAsia’s Clark – Taipei route operates with the following schedule.

Keep updated with AirAsia’s latest promotion and activities via twitter (@AirAsiaFilipino), Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsiaPH) and on Instagram (@AirAsiaFilipino).

AirAsia Hits Half a Billion Guests! Sixteen Years of Blood, Sweat and Tears

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BANGKOK, 15 May 2018 – In just sixteen years, AirAsia has flown over 500 million guests to over 130 destinations, many of which are unique destinations that only AirAsia flies to.

AirAsia's 500 millionth guest Dr Panut Oprasertsawat (centre right) receiving 3 million AirAsia BIG Points, THB50,000 worth of Vidi vouchers and free AirAsia flights for life from AirAsia Group CEO and AirAsia X Co-Group CEO Tony Fernandes and Thai TV superstar Pope Thanawat (second from right).

“We started in 2001 with just 2 planes and 200 Allstars in Malaysia and carried 200,000 guests. Today, we have more than 200 planes, over 20,000 Allstars of 50 different nationalities and half a billion guests, 60% of which were first time flyers. Half a billion guests is no small feat -- it is 7 times the population of Thailand, 16 times the population of Malaysia and about 80 percent of the entire Asean population (640 million, 2018*). 

“We would like to attribute this incredible milestone to every single guest who has flown with AirAsia. We are delighted to have been part of the flying experiences and memories of so many people and communities around the world, especially Asean, making it a smaller place. We are also proud to have contributed positively to the region’s economy through tourism and job creation,”  said AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernandes. 

The 500 millionth guest, 34-year old Dr Panut Oprasertsawat took AirAsia over the half a billion mark when he flew from Phuket to Bangkok Don Mueang on 18 March 2018.

Dr Panut Oprasertsawat said, “I travel frequently between Bangkok and Phuket for work. AirAsia has always been my preferred airline due to their high flight frequency, affordable price and excellent services. Over the past decade, I am able to manage my business at both places due to the easy access of air connectivity. I am truly excited to be part of this milestone.”

AirAsia is proud to be a market leader in air connectivity within Asean. Since its early days, AirAsia has initiated new routes which were previously unheard of, including between East Malaysia and Peninsular Malaysia, in order to bring communities closer and boost economic activities. The airline was also the first to introduce international flights to Bandung, Indonesia, which has now grown to be a key international hub.

Most recently, the UK-based air travel intelligence company OAG reported that Singapore-Kuala Lumpur is the busiest international route, with AirAsia now holding the largest share of capacity.

AirAsia has been named the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline at the annual Skytrax World Airline Awards nine times in a row from 2009 to 2017. AirAsia was also awarded World's Leading Low-Cost Airline for the fifth consecutive year at the 2017 World Travel Awards, where it became the inaugural recipient of the World's Leading Low-Cost Airline Cabin Crew award.

The airline has also realised many of its Allstars’ dreams such as Kugan Tangiisuran, who started as a dispatch boy to now sitting in the flight deck as a co-pilot; Logan Velaitham, who was a cabin crew and now leads AirAsia Singapore as a CEO; first commercial female pilot in Malaysia, Captain Norasikin Che Onn and many more dreams of talented Allstars.

AirAsia will bring its #halfabillion celebration to selected destinations across the region, on the ground and in the air, while guests will be able to view a personalised video of their journey with AirAsia when they log into halfabillion.airasia.com.

* https://www.statista.com/statistics/796222/total-population-of-the-asean-countries/

AirAsia celebrates inter-Asean connectivity with new Manila-Jakarta flights #AirAsiainJakarta

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Traditional water cannon salute upon arrival at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.

AirAsia is now flying from Manila to Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, further strengthening the airline’s commitment as a truly Asean carrier. 

(L-R) AirAsia Cabin Crew, I Ketut Ferry Utameyasa , Senior Manager of Aeronautical Commercial Division, Angkasa Pura 2, Adji Gunawan, CEO of PT Jasa Angkasa Semesta Tbk, AirAsia Philippines CEO Capt. Dexter Comendador, Marianne Ludwina, CFO PT Jasa Angkasa Semesta Tbk, AirAsia Philippines Chairperson Maan Hontiveros, Dendy Kurniawan, CEO of AirAsia Group in Indonesia, Hon. Budi Dhewajani, Charge d'affaires, Embassy of The Republic of Indonesia in Manila

AirAsia, voted the World’s Best Low Cost Carrier for nine years running, flew its maiden flight from Manila to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta today with send-off ceremonies held at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3. 

AirAsia flight Z2 235 with pilot in command AirAsia Philippines CEO Captain Dexter Comendador left Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport with 100% pax load and was welcomed by a traditional water cannon salute upon arrival at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.

(L-R) Rifai Taberi, Commercial Director AirAsia Indonesia, AirAsia Philippines CEO Capt. Dexter Comendador, AirAsia Cabin Crew

AirAsia Philippines CEO Dexter Comendador said, “AirAsia is a product of Asean and we are so proud to be part of this region we call home. We are thrilled to add another Asean destination into our ever growing network. We do love Asean so much that today we are starting Manila - Jakarta and by next week or on January 19, we are to fly Manila – Bali next.”

Officers from the Embassy of Indonesia to the Philippines led by Charge d'affaires Budi Dhewajani and Hidayat Zakaira joined AirAsia Philippines Chairperson Maan Hontiveros aboard the inaugural flight from Manila to Jakarta along with guests from start-ups business community, Filipina CEO Circle in the Philippines and members of the media. 

AirAsia Group CEO for Indonesia, Mr. Dendy Kurniawan, and officials from transportation, tourism and airport ministries in Indonesia, meanwhile, welcomed the Philippine group at a ceremonial dinner held in Seribu Rasa Menteng in Jakarta.

“We want to bring the people across the Asean region closer together with our new flights connecting Manila to Jakarta and Bali following our Manila – Ho Chi Minh City last November, we are looking at adding new routes to Thailand this year and further expand our Asean footprint to serve more and more communities.” Comendador said. 

AirAsia also offers several flights to Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia and Singapore from Manila and Cebu in the Philippines. 

Keep updated with AirAsia’s latest promotion and activities via twitter (@AirAsiaFilipino), Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsiaPH) and on Instagram (@AirAsiaFilipino).

About AirAsia Philippines:

AirAsia Philippines is a wholly owned subsidiary of AirAsia Inc. which is a joint venture company among Filipino investors Antonio O. Cojuangco, former Ambassador Alfredo M. Yao, Michael L. Romero, Marianne B. Hontiveros, and Malaysia’s AirAsia Berhad.

AAP operates a fleet of 17 aircraft with domestic and international flights out of hubs in Manila, Cebu, and Kalibo. The airline operates several flights to/from Manila, Davao, Cebu, Kalibo, Caticlan (Boracay), Tacloban, Tagbilaran (Bohol), Puerto Princesa (Palawan), Clark, and Iloilo in the Philippines with international flights to/from Shanghai, Taipei, Incheon (Seoul), Hong Kong, Macau, Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Guangzhou, Vietnam, Indonesia and Singapore.

AAP is part of the AirAsia Group that has been awarded the World’s Best Low Cost Carrier for nine consecutive years running by Skytrax since 2009 to 2017.

About the AirAsia Group

AirAsia, the leading and largest low-cost carrier in Asia, services the most extensive network with over 120 destinations. Within 15 years of operations, AirAsia has carried over 350 million guests and grown its fleet from just two aircraft to over 170. The airline is proud to be a truly Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) airline with established operations based in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, India and Japan, servicing a network stretching across all Asean countries and beyond. AirAsia was named the World’s Best Low Cost Airline in the annual World Airline Survey by Skytrax for nine consecutive years from 2009 – 2017. AirAsia is the first airline globally to collaborate with INTERPOL to implement the I-Checkit system to screen the passports of all its prospective passengers against information contained in the world police body’s Stolen and Lost Travel Documents (SLTD) database.

BPI, AirAsia team up to make travel goals happen this 2018

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BPI has partnered with AirAsia for an exclusive one-stop travel event for BPI Cardholders, who can enjoy discounted airfares for as low as PhP890, and up to 50% off on accommodations in luxury resorts. The BPI-AirAsia Travel Fair was from January 5-7, 2018, at the Grand Atrium, Shangri-La Plaza.

“We’ve collaborated with AirAsia to offer some exciting travel deals for our clients to destinations within ASEAN,” said Jenelyn Lacerna, BPI Vice President and Head of Credit Cards Business. “The beginning of the year is the perfect time to plan these dream trips, and hopefully, this tie-up will make it easier for our clients to do so.”

As the first travel fair to kick-off 2018, the event offers BPI Cardholders the chance to explore top local destinations such as Boracay, Bohol, Palawan, or go on trips to Hong Kong, Korea, Taipei and more. These affordable local packages include luxury getaways to Two Seasons Coron Island Resort, Amorita Resort Bohol, Pearl Farm Beach Resort Davao, etc.

BPI Cardholders also get free AirAsia Big Points equal to a roundtrip domestic and international flight for a minimum single-receipt purchase of AirAsia tickets using their BPI Cards.

This promo is exclusive to those with qualified cards such as BPI Express Credit (Blue Mastercard, Gold Mastercard, Petron-BPI Mastercard, BPI SkyMiles Mastercard, BPI SkyMiles Platinum Mastercard, Edge/Mini Edge Mastercard, BPI Corporate Classic, BPI Corporate Mastercard, BPI Amore Visa, and BPI Amore Visa Platinum), and BPI Family Bank Mastercard and BPI Prepaid Cards (My ePrepaid Mastercard, More Fun Visa Prepaid Card, Amore Visa Prepaid, and BPI ePay Virtual Mastercard Cardholders with available load).

For more details about the promo, visit the official website of BPI Cards at www.bpicards.com.

AirAsia celebrates Clark-Caticlan/Boracay inaugural flight

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Chase the wonders of the Philippine islands as AirAsia now flying direct to Boracay via Caticlan airport from Clark, Pampanga. 

AirAsia, the airline voted as the World’s Best Low Cost Carrier for nine years running,  flew its maiden flight today with summer inspired theme held at pre-departure area in Clark International Airport. AirAsia flight Z2 922, with pilot in command Captain Samuel Yu-Asensi arrived at 10:55AM. AirAsia’s iconic red plane was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute upon landing.

“Today marks another milestone for AirAsia operations in Clark airport with the addition of our third domestic route. We are closing the year with Clark-Caticlan route but this early we have already started offering our signature low fares to three more new destinations out of Clark. Clark-Iloilo, Clark-Puerto Princesa and Clark-Tacloban commencing in January, and we are here to give only the best quality service that every traveller from Central and Northern Luzon deserves,”  said Captain Darren Acorda, Philippines AirAsia’s chief pilot for training and standards.

More excitingly, AirAsia is offering promo fares for Clark-Caticlan from as low as P1,566 now available for booking at airasia.com today until 31 December 2017 valid for travel between 18 December 2017 until 8 January 2018. 

Clark International Airport officials led by CIAC President Alexander Cauguiran, DOT Regional Director Carol Uy, and Mabalacat Mayor Crisostomo Garbo graced the send-off ceremony with Philippines AirAsia chief pilot for training and standards Captain Darren Acorda representing the airline CEO Captain Dexter Comendador. 

“AirAsia believes in Clark. We established our base operations here and launched commercial flights in 2012 with only two planes – and now we have a fleet of 17 jets and we are aiming to expand and grow operations here in the coming years,” Acorda said. 

AirAsia’s Clark-Caticlan operates daily with flights departing Clark at 1:50PM and arriving in Caticlan at 3:05PM.

Starting January 26, 2018, Meanwhile, AirAsia is also set to launch three domestic flights :  

Clark - Puerto Princesa and Clark – Iloilo routes will operate three times a week or every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday while Clark – Tacloban route is every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. 

AirAsia has marked its return to Clark with the launching of flights to Davao and Kalibo from Clark International Airport last March. 

AirAsia launched commercial flights from Clark in 2012 before transferring its hub to Metro Manila following a strategic partnership with a local carrier in 2013. AirAsia has since been operating on a much larger scale from Metro Manila and has expanded its domestic and international network with flights from secondary hubs in Cebu and Kalibo operating a fleet of 17 aircraft from only two planes when it opened in Clark five years ago.

As one of the bloggers from Manila,  joining the celebration and witnessed the  ceremonial ribbon and cake-cutting ceremonies took place this Friday, December 15 at the Clack International Airport.

Discover more wonders of the Philippines, fly from Clark to Caticlan! 

To keep up-to-date with AirAsia’s latest promotions and activities, visit AirAsia’s official website and social media accounts - Twitter (@AirAsiaPH), Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsiaPh), Instagram (@AirAsiaPh), and on Viber public chat (@AirAsiaPh).

#AirAsiainBoracay

AirAsia and World Vision to help children "See the World"

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AirAsia Executives hand over an AirAsia model plane as a sign of commitment and partnership with World Vision. (From left: Mr. Pete Chareonwongsak, AirAsia Regional COO, Capt. Darren Adrian Acorda, AirAsia Philippines’ Chief Pilot for Operations, Mr. Rommel Fuerte, World Vision Philippines’ National Director, World Vision Ambassadors Ms. Gelli Victor, Quest and Christian Bautista, World Vision Philippines’ Media and Communications Manager Mr. Gjeff Lamigo)

AirAsia in partnership with World Vision celebrates the season of giving through a joint Christmas initiative called “See the World,” an awareness building and fundraising effort for the benefit of Filipino children.

“See the World” aims to raise at least one million pesos to provide sponsorship program for many children as direct recipients across the country.

For every AirAsia seats booked or sold in the Philippines from 1 to 31 December 2017, five pesos will be automatically donated to World Vision’s child sponsorship program. 

Mr. Pete Chareongwongsak, AirAsia Regional COO talks about the “See the World” campaign.

AirAsia Regional Chief Operating Officer Pete Chareonwongsak said,

“The collaboration between AirAsia and World Vision represents another step forward in our commitment to the philosophy that no corporation can live apart from the community it serves. As a truly Filipino airline, we will always extend a helping hand to the communities we serve.”

“AirAsia as a global brand is honored to partner with an international relief, development and advocacy organization as we both share the same commitment and passion in helping communities especially children see the wonders of the world through sponsorship programs in education.”

World Vision Philippines’ National Director Mr. Rommel Fuerte talks about the AirAsia and World Vision partnership.

World Vision Philippines National Director Rommel Fuerte, meanwhile, said, “As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of World Vision here in the Philippines, we are very thankful to have this milestone partnership with AirAsia Philippines. With this significant initiative, we can ensure that every peso that will be donated to World Vision will help a lot of underprivileged Filipino children attain their dreams.” 

“Christmas in the Philippines is very much celebrated and being involved in this exciting project is truly a gift that enables us to reach out and help as many children as we can.”

World Vision Ambassador Ms. Gelli Victor hosts the “See the World” launch.

Capt. Darren Acorda and First Officer Andre Abacan awards an AirAsia Pilot's badge to a World Vision sponsored child who dreams of becoming a pilot. 

Aside from fundraising efforts, “See the World” will feature inspiring stories of children from impoverished communities around the country whose lives have changed and caused other children and communities to aspire for better living conditions. 

“See the World” was officially launched at Hotel H2O with World Vision Philippines ambassadors led by Asia’s Romantic Balladeer Christian Bautista, singer and rapper Quest and radio DJ and host Gelli Victor. 

World Vision Ambassador Mr. Christian Bautista talks about the World Vision Child Sponsorship Program and the milestone partnership between AirAsia and World Vision through the “See the World” project.

World Vision Ambassador Christian Bautista and Mandaluyong Children’s Choir sing together for the AirAsia – World Vision See the World launch. 

World Vision ambassador Christian Bautista said, “Working with World Vision in the Philippines is really a joy for me. Yes, I am able to touch the lives of these children when we reach out to them. But they don’t know how their smiles are able to change me as a person. And with the wonderful ‘See the World’ collaboration of AirAsia and World Vision, each one can have that chance to touch each other's hearts and celebrate Christmas in a different way.” 

World Vision Ambassador Quest touches the hearts of the audience through his sharing about his experience as a World Vision sponsor and performing one of his inspiring songs.

For his part, Quest, also an ambassador for World Vision said, “I don’t feel any burden being a child sponsor. In fact, it makes me feel wonderful being able to help. And through this ‘See the World’ campaign of AirAsia and World Vision in the Philippines, it will be easier for anyone to help.” 

AirAsia Philippines will run a web series online and available in AirAsiaPhilippines facebook starting November 20. 

Keep updated and find out more about “See the World” through #AirAsiaWorldVision and #SeeTheWorld hashtags.

AirAsia Philippines is a member of the AirAsia Group, voted the World’s Best Low Cost Carrier for nine consecutive years running. AAP operates a fleet of 17 aircraft with domestic and international flights out of hubs in Manila, Cebu, and Kalibo. The airline operates several flights to/from Manila, Davao, Cebu, Kalibo, Caticlan (Boracay), Tacloban, Tagbilaran (Bohol), Puerto Princesa (Palawan), Clark, and Iloilo in the Philippines with international flights to/from Shanghai, Taipei, Incheon (Seoul), Hong Kong, Macau, Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Guangzhou, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Singapore.

The AirAsia “See the World” Christmas project is also brought to you by AirAsia BIG Loyalty Programme.

About AirAsia BIG Loyalty Programme

Introducing AirAsia’s all-new Freedom Flyer Programme, powered by BIG Loyalty.

You can now earn BIG Points faster and enjoy better rewards than ever before, only from flying with AirAsia. Download the BIG Loyalty mobile app to discover your new membership status today! 

Did you know you can redeem round trip flights for as low 1,000* BIG points during the monthly Final Call sale? 

Visit www.airasiabig.com now to join us and go further. 

“See the World” fundraising activity mechanics

AirAsia launches “Red Talks with Daphne” web series

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“Red Talks with Daphne,” was formally launched today (March 20) by AirAsia, with TV host and producer, Daphne Oseña-Paez.

AirAsia, voted the world's best low cost carrier for eight consecutive years by Skytrax, launched a 6-part web series featuring some of Asia’s best-kept attractions, rich cultural heritage, and inside stories about people and the airline that broke travel norms and made flying possible for everyone across Asia and beyond.

“Red Talks with Daphne,” is hosted by award-winning TV host and producer, Daphne Oseña-Paez. She takes viewers to different places and talks about traveling, flying, helping and inspiring communities.

Philippines AirAsia Brand Manager David Viray said, “AirAsia was established with a dream of making flying affordable and accessible to all and this success story has inspired so many people and communities across the region. The Red Talks team led by Daphne traveled far and beyond to search for places and meet people who share the same dream and story.” 

The Red Talks with Daphne web series:

• Destination: Dream (The Man with the Red Cap). It takes viewers to AirAsia’s massive headquarters in Kuala Lumpur where Daphne and AirAsia Group CEO Tony Fernandes talk about the airline’s humble beginning and the exciting times for air travelers in the future.
• 

• Destination: Fly is an inside look on what it takes to be an AirAsia cabin crew and how their journeys and training earned them the distinct recognition of being world-class in a highly demanding job and environment.

• Destination: Good (The Silversmiths of Arkomjogja), meanwhile, tells the story of architects and silversmiths in Jogjakarta, Indonesia. This third episode highlights the work of the AirAsia Foundation in keeping these ancient traditions alive. 

• Destination: Unity. It talks about ASEAN as a single market destination and how AirAsia is making it more convenient, more affordable, more fun and more exciting to travel around thousands of islands and the challenges of connecting people, places, and empowering communities.

• Destination: Harmony (The role of business in environmental protection) goes to Palawan. In this fifth episode, Daphne talks about pearl production and delves into the ongoing campaign to protect Palawan’s marine biodiversity through responsible eco-tourism.

• Destination: Freedom (A tribute to travelers from all walks of life), brings viewers to Shanghai, China in a story of adventure, thrill, and excitement. 

Red Talks with Daphne was made possible by the AirAsia Foundation, the AA BIG Loyalty Programme, Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta, Flower Island Resort Palawan and Jewelmer. 

AirAsia BIG Loyalty Program makes it even easier and faster to fly. AirAsia’s award-winning loyalty programme, AirAsia BIG Loyalty allows members to earn AirAsia BIG Points to redeem free AirAsia flights, hotel stays and more. With over 100 partners worldwide, there are plenty of ways to earn points. And every month during the member-exclusive Final Call Sale, flights can be redeemed from only 500 BIG Points!

Red Talks with Daphne will premiere on AirAsia Philippines’ Facebook page at www.facebook.com/airasiaph on March 25, 2017.

Discover Shanghai, the “Paris of the East” via AirAsia Philippines

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AirAsia Philippines, the world’s best low-cost airline, continues to connect the world as it added another wonderful destination on their route map – Shanghai, “The Paris of the East”. 

Shanghai is known as China’s commercial and financial center but is also bursting with cultural experiences. On one side of the Huangpu River lies ultra-modern Pudong, home to the newly opened Shanghai Disneyland and the colorful Oriental Pear Tower, and on the other side, Puxi with its host of historical spots like the French Concession, glitzy waterside promenade The Bund with its stretch of historical colonial buildings or Yuyuan Garden, which gives you a glimpse of Ming and Qing dynasty architecture.

A look at Yuyuan Garden in the northeast of the Old City of Shanghai.

After an exciting day in Shanghai, take a break by going to notable places outside the city center. Relax at the Dongping National Forest Park, a man-made forest at Chongming Island. Ride a boat at the “Shanghai’s Venice”, the Zhujiaojiao Water Village at the Chinpu District and have spiritual trip to the Lingyin Temple at the Zhejiang, Hangzhou to complete your dream vacation.

Don’t miss the classic steamed Xiao Long Bao.

And one definitely won’t go hungry in here – finding its culinary secrets is an adventure in and of itself. Don’t leave Shanghai without trying their Xiao Long Bao, Jianbing or Egg Pancakes, Scallion Oil Noodles and Bamboo Tofu with Pepper partnered with the Xinjiang Black Beer or Tsingtao Beer.

Shanghai’s skyline by day

AirAsia Philippines, continues to surprise and delight travellers with their wide range of flights. From top tourist spots of Asia such as Hong Kong, Seoul and Singapore to the hidden gems like Kota Kinabalu, Siam Reap and Bali, AirAsia continues to make travel accessible by offering the lowest fares online to over 100 destinations across Asia.

To get a glimpse of what you can experience in Shanghai, visit AirAsia’s Official Facebook page (facebook.com/AirAsiaPhilippines) and watch the webisodes featuring Shanghai’s beautiful spots, friendly faces and delicious food.

Kimberly Pauig, Grand Winner of “AirAsia Travel Photographer 2016” Contest

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Kimberly Pauig, Grand winner of AirAsia Travel Photographer Contest  with  AirAsia Travel Photographer panel of judges and event host Tracy Abad 

After hundreds of entries and a series of exciting challenges, Kimberly Pauig, a writer from Pasig City, emerged as the winner of this year’s AirAsia Travel Photographer Contest, gets 200,000 AirAsia BIG points!

The AirAsia Travel Photographer Top 3 Finalists. (From left: AirAsia Pilot, AirAsia Cabin Crew, Dave Poblete – 2nd Place, Kimberly Pauig – 1st Place, DJ Magbanua – 3rd Place)

The results were announced live at the dramatic AirAsia Travel Photographer Final Show held in Green Sun, Makati City. 

From hundreds of entries, the field was whittled down to six finalists who travelled all the way to Macau to compete in different challenges. Finalists Neil Michael Cardano, a Hotel Front Desk Officer from Puerto Princesa, Palawan; Mithilaya Miclat, a Nutritionist-Dietician and Social Entrepreneur from Davao City; Eliseo Zuniga, a lawyer from Taguig City; Kimberly Pauig, a writer from Pasig City; Daniel Magbanua, a Fashion Photography student from Quezon City and Dave Poblete, a BPO employee from Makati City, showed their skills in portraiture, food photography and more, as they visited Coloane Village, Fisherman’s Wharf and other cultural attractions in Macau.

The AirAsia Travel Photographer panel of judges deliberating the results. (From left: Nachi Ugarte, Wawi Navarrosa, Jacob Maentz)

At the Final Show hosted by DJ Tracy Abad of The Mad House of Mellow 94.7, the top three finalists, DJ Magbanua, Kimberly Pauig and Dave Poblete were selected and immediately went through final presentations to the judges who are composed of young leaders and veterans in the field of photography, branding and visual arts. The panel of judges included Nachi Ugarte, creative director of GRID magazine; Jacob Maentz, documentary photographer; Wawi Navarrosa, artist/photographer, founder of Thousandfold.

"We are impressed with the quality and composition of entries we received this year. The six finalists did a wonderful job in the final leg of challenges with each of their photos revealing a compelling story. Needless to say, it was a difficult decision to choose only one winner." said Jacob Maentz.

After an intense deliberation session, Kimberly Pauig, a writer from Pasig City whose beautiful portrait shot wowed the judges, became the “AirAsia Travel Photographer 2016”.

She received 200,000 AirAsia BIG Points, a surprise vacation package and several prizes from partner brands including GRID magazine and Flight 001 Philippines.

The “AirAsia Travel Photographer 2016”, Ms. Kimberly Pauig (3rd from left) together with the Philippines AirAsia Pilot and Cabin Crew.

The AirAsia Travel Photographer 2016 People’s Choice Awardee, Dave Poblete with the Philippines AirAsia Head of Commercial Mr. Gerard Penaflor.

Dave Poblete was named 1st Runner Up and Daniel Magbanua placed 2nd Runner Up, with both receiving 50,000 AirAsia BIG Points. Dave Poblete also took home the People’s Choice Award, as he received the highest public votes at the official AirAsia Travel Photographer website (www.airasiatp.com). 

To revisit the exciting journey of the top six, visit AirAsia’s Official Facebook page (facebook.com/AirAsiaPhilippines) to watch the webisodes featuring their amazing experience in Macau all the way to the final elimination and announcement of the winner.

The AirAsia Travel Photographer 2016 is also brought to you by AirAsia BIG Loyalty Programme, Mellow 94.7, Grid Magazine and Flight 001 Philippines.

The AATP, which is now on its second-year, is part of AirAsia’s continuous effort to inspire, engage and empower the youth to pursue their goals by traveling and sharing their stories through stunning images and photographs.

AirAsia BIG Points raffle winner Joviland Rita with an AirAsia Cabin Crew and Philippines AirAsia Marketing Officer Ms. Stephanie Bascos.

All participants went through rounds of judging and were selected based on creativity, content, originality and technical or visual presentation.