A year ago, Philippine Airlines launched its first-ever direct flights from Perth to Manila, influencing bilateral trade, investment, and business relations between Western Australia and the Philippines.
This nonstop air link drove significant growth and development of businesses in WA, exemplified by recent milestones such as the transport of Philippine Carabao mangoes to Australia, carried on a Philippine Airlines flight after a ten-year hiatus. These achievements underscore the importance of direct flights between Perth and Manila for facilitating trade and economic opportunities.
As Philippine Airlines commemorates this milestone and celebrates its first-year anniversary of flying to Perth, key stakeholders and representatives from both regions gathered at a cocktail networking event held at Santini Bar QT Perth on the 4th of April 2024.
Among the attendees were PAL International Sales Department Country Manager Krystle Ramirez-Gastrock, Business Development Manager of Western Australia Ashley Cooper, Mr. Arthur Angelopoulos, Former Honorary Consul to Perth Virma Symons, representatives from the Australia-Philippine Business Council, ASEAN Business Council, numerous Filipino-Australian organizations and associations, industry leaders, and business stakeholders.
Filipino-Australia Health Workers Association (FAHWA) President Aida Oakdon, who had the privilege of flying on the first direct flight last year, shared her reflections on the experience. Aida also won the winning bid for a business class ticket to the Philippines during the 2023 Philippine Independence Day Celebration in Perth, sponsored by Philippine Airlines.
“I enjoyed my business class direct to the Philippines… The food was great, the drinks were amazing, the staff were amazing… They were all friendly and passionate about their job… The direct flights are really really convenient,” Aida stated.
Melissa Dalisay-Aguasa, the distributor of Philippine Carabao mangoes in Western Australia, also extended her heartfelt congratulations to Philippine Airlines and expressed gratitude for the introduction of direct flights, which significantly helped her business endeavors. Melissa acknowledged the crucial role of Philippine Airlines in facilitating the historic shipment of fresh mango exports to Australia after a decade-long wait.
PAL’s anniversary event provided a great opportunity for business networking, with attendees exchanging ideas and contacts over complimentary cocktail drinks and delectable canapes. A photo booth added to the festive atmosphere.
At the end of the event, Philippine Airlines held a raffle draw offering return Business Class tickets from Perth to anywhere in the Philippines to two (2) lucky attendees.
Beyond the festivities, the event served as a reflection of the growing ties between Western Australia and the Philippines. From fostering business opportunities to promoting cultural exchange, the event underscored a promising potential for continued collaboration and growth between the two regions.
