Data from the Board of Investments show Philippine aerospace exports reached US$590.2 million in 2024, rising further to US$603.1 million in the first nine months of 2025. Major markets include the United States, Singapore, France, and China.

Building on this momentum, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Philippine Trade and Investment Centre in Singapore (PTIC-Singapore), is promoting the country’s capabilities in aerospace manufacturing, parts production, sub-assemblies, and MRO services at the Philippine Pavilion of the Singapore Airshow 2026.

DTI is supporting the Philippine delegation by facilitating business matching and targeted introductions with potential foreign investors, buyers, and partners attending the Airshow. The DTI Singapore team, led by Commercial Counsellor Carla Grepo, is helping strengthen industry links, including collaboration between the Aerospace Industries Association of the Philippines, represented by Executive Director Wilfredo Estoque, and the Association of Aerospace Industries Singapore, led by Chew Hwee Yong.

DTI’s engagement focuses on positioning the Philippines as a competitive location for aerospace manufacturing and services while advancing direct commercial discussions between Philippine firms and international aerospace companies.

The country already hosts established aerospace manufacturers and global MRO players, supported by a growing local supplier base engaged in precision machining, components, and assemblies. These operations are anchored in investment-ready industrial zones and airport-linked developments promoted by other agencies represented in the Pavilion.

The Philippine Pavilion brings together economic agencies, infrastructure operators, and private-sector firms engaged in aviation and aerospace. Delegates include representatives from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, Philippine Airlines, Clark International Airport Corporation, Aerospace Industries Association of the Philippines, LIPAD Corporation, Poro Point Management Corporation, European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, Berthaphil Inc., Skytrack Aviation Services, Skyway Airlines, and Wingbox Aviation.

Sponsored by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority and the Department of Tourism, the Pavilion was open to visitors from 3–6 February 2026.

Singapore, a regional headquarters hub for many global aviation and aerospace firms, provides a strategic platform for investment discussions, particularly for companies seeking Southeast Asian manufacturing and services partners.

Interested companies may contact PTIC-Singapore at singapore@dti.gov.ph

Held on February 9 at the Ambassador’s residence, the gathering marked Bautista’s receipt of The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star, part of the 2025 Autumn Conferment of Decorations, in recognition of his contributions to advancing cooperation between Japan and the Philippines across critical sectors.

Around 50 guests attended the reception, including Bautista’s family, senior government officials such as Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan and Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, business leaders, and representatives of Japanese firms.

In his remarks, Ambassador Endo paid tribute to Bautista’s years of service and leadership, describing him as “the gentleman in its real sense, disciplined, extremely kind and gentle, always filled with smiles,” and noting that his “many years of dedicated service and outstanding leadership make him eminently deserving of this prestigious award.”

More than a ceremonial recognition, the award highlighted Bautista’s role in strengthening Japan-Philippines cooperation in three key areas that have reshaped the country’s connectivity and security landscape: railways, maritime safety, and aviation.

Driving rail modernization

Endo credited Bautista’s leadership at the Department of Transportation from 2022 to 2025 with pushing forward major railway projects backed by Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA), including the Manila Metro Rail Transit and the North–South Commuter Railway.

“As Secretary of Transportation, he provided steady and thoughtful leadership in advancing major railway initiatives,” the ambassador said. “Under his stewardship, largescale projects such as the Manila Metro Rail Transit and the North-South Commuter Railway moved forward through effective use of Japan’s Official Development Assistance.”

Endo noted that Bautista tackled one of the most persistent barriers to infrastructure development—land acquisition—by setting up an inter-agency coordination committee and streamlining procedures. These reforms, he said, accelerated project implementation and contributed significantly to national economic development.

Strengthening maritime security

Beyond rail, Bautista also helped deepen cooperation in maritime safety at a time of heightened tensions in regional waters.

“Through projects to enhance the capacity of the Philippine Coast Guard, Secretary Bautista facilitated the provision of multi-role response vessels through ODA and ensured the timely and smooth conclusion of related agreements,” Endo said.

He added that these efforts took on broader strategic importance.

“At a time of rising tensions in the South China Sea / the West Philippine Sea, his efforts underscored the importance of deepening Japan-Philippines cooperation in upholding a free and open international order based on the rule of law,” he said, noting that this work strengthened trust and confidence between the two nations.

Building bridges in the skies

Aviation, however, is where Bautista’s influence spans decades.

Even before joining government, Bautista led Philippine Airlines as president and CEO, steering the company through a major turnaround that culminated in its recognition as the “World’s Most Improved Airline” in 2018. During that period, he actively fostered partnerships with Japan’s All Nippon Airways.

“New routes between Haneda and Manila, expanded codeshare agreements, and strengthened capital alliances all contributed to deeper connectivity and closer ties between Japan and the Philippines,” Endo said.

As Transportation Secretary, Bautista continued to champion reforms in aviation, including the redevelopment and privatization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

The initiative, realized in 2024, is expected to improve operational efficiency and significantly increase passenger capacity—an important step in supporting the growing number of Filipino travelers to Japan.

“In fact, we welcomed so many Filipino friends last Christmas and New Year holiday season,” the ambassador added, pointing to the strengthening people-to-people exchanges made possible by improved air connectivity.

A legacy across rails, seas, and skies

Taken together, Endo said Bautista’s work across transport infrastructure and security sectors has had a lasting impact on bilateral relations.

“Taken together, Secretary Bautista’s contributions to Japan-Philippines relations—across railways, maritime safety, and aviation—have profoundly advanced the friendship, development, and mutual trust between our two nations,” he said. “His work has improved the lives of our peoples while contributing to regional peace and stability, making him truly deserving of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star.”

The recognition comes as Japan and the Philippines mark the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations in 2026, celebrated under the theme “Weaving the Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, Possibilities.”

“As we reflect on seventy years of shared history, we take great pride in leaders like Secretary Bautista,” Endo said. “Moving forward, Japan and the Philippines will surely continue to add new threads to this enduring fabric and weave the future together.”

Closing his remarks, the ambassador expressed his personal appreciation: “Maraming salamat po sa iyong mahabang taon ng walang humpay na paglilingkod! Mabuhay ang pagkakaibigan ng Japan at Pilipinas!”

For Bautista, the award marks both a recognition of past achievements and a symbol of a partnership that continues to shape the Philippines’ transport landscape—one railway, one vessel, and one runway at a time.

Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a press briefing Thursday (Jan. 29) announced by DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez that PAL and CEB have agreed to reduce fares to some destinations such as Siargao.

“Sinabi rin niya (Secretary Lopez) na nakapag-negotiate na siya at nakipag-usap na sa pamunuan ng PAL at Cebu Pacific at nag-agree naman na mababawasan ang presyo lalong-lalo na sa Siargao flights,” she said.

Castro added that the DOTr has revealed several factors affecting domestic airfares, particularly the use of small planes that can carry only 100 passengers.

“May mga nag-o-operate na mga smaller aircraft na nakakapag-accommodate lamang ng 60 to 70 passengers pero pareho ng operational costs as compared sa jet economics na nakakapag-accommodate ng 200 passengers,” she said.

“So, kung tutuusin niyo, mas mahal talaga ‘pag smaller craft ang magagamit. Pero karamihan talaga, smaller craft lang ang puwedeng bumiyahe sa mga magagandang destinasyon dito sa Pilipinas,” she added.

Castro also revealed that the fluctuating price of fuel is what most affects the cost of air fares, but he said the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) continues to remind airline companies to also lower fuel surcharges when fuel prices decrease.

“May mga problem rin patungkol sa fluctuating fuel cost pero kapag nakita naman na bumababa ang presyo, nire-remind ng CAB ang mga airlines na i-reduce rin nila ang fuel surcharge,” she said.

Castro stressed that the adjustment or reduction in the surcharge will greatly help lower airfares.

“‘Yan ang ginagawa ng DOTr para mas gumanda pa ang turismo sa ating bansa pagdating sa isyu ng airfare,” she said.

During the celebration, “Legacy in Flight: Celebrating 85 Years of Philippine Airlines (PAL) and the Unveiling of the A350-1000,” held at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, President Marcos recognized the flag carrier’s legacy built on resilience, service, and dedication to connecting Filipinos with the world.

PAL has remained a steady presence in the country’s national story through changing times and growing challenges, the President said.

PAL is Asia’s first commercial airline. It owns the distinction of being the first Asian airline to cross the Pacific Ocean (1946) and fly to Europe (1947).

The addition to the PAL fleet of the Airbus A350-1000, one of the most modern widebody aircraft designed for long-haul travel, underscores the importance of keeping pace with a rapidly evolving aviation industry, the President continued.

“Taken together, these milestones point us firmly towards the future. They strengthen our aviation sector, expand connectivity, and open doors to trade, tourism, and investment,” President Marcos said.

“In doing so, we reaffirm aviation’s role as a powerful engine of economic growth and of national development.”

The President said since its founding in 1941, the country’s only full-service four-star airline has consistently provided dependable, high-quality service to both Filipino and international travelers.

The flag carrier has also helped showcase the Philippines’ natural beauty and cultural richness, and more importantly, carried with it the Filipino warmth and hospitality, said President Marcos.

The Chief Executive described PAL’s newly released safety video as engaging, creative, and distinctly Filipino for showcasing the beauty of the country’s landscapes, while weaving in the familiar intrigue and drama of a Filipino telenovela.

President Marcos presided over the unveiling of PAL’s Airbus A350-1000, whose new-generation design and materials bring up to 25 percent reduction in fuel burn—thereby lowering operating costs while significantly cutting carbon emissions.

PAL’s first Airbus A350-1000, which is also the first in Southeast Asia and the tenth worldwide, opens new possibilities for long-distance travel, including routes to North America, according to the President.

“This step complements our efforts to modernize the aviation sector and embrace more sustainable practices for the future,” President Marcos said.

As Lufthansa enters its centennial year in 2026, the anniversary is as much about reflection as it is about renewal. It honors a century shaped by ambition and innovation, but also by rupture, responsibility, and reinvention. Under its anniversary motto, “We are the Journey,” Lufthansa looks back honestly—and forward deliberately—into its second century of flight.

The original Lufthansa was founded in 1926 through the merger of Junkers Luftverkehr and Deutsche Aero Lloyd, two pioneers of early commercial aviation. The union reflected the spirit of the age: technological daring, cross-border ambition, and the belief that air travel could shrink distances and expand opportunity.

But history did not unfold smoothly. Like Europe itself, Lufthansa’s trajectory was shaped by upheaval. The airline’s darkest chapter came during the Nazi era, when it became integrated into the regime and played an active role within it. Today, Lufthansa acknowledges this period openly. The centennial is being used as a moment for deeper historical examination—grounded in research and transparency—recognizing that responsibility for the past is inseparable from credibility in the future.

Importantly, Lufthansa’s reckoning does not begin after the war. The years from its founding through the collapse of the first Lufthansa remain part of the company’s institutional memory—studied, documented, and confronted rather than erased.

A second beginning

In 1953, a new chapter began with the legal re-establishment of what is now Deutsche Lufthansa AG. Two years later, in 1955, flight operations resumed. It was a rebirth that demanded a different kind of courage: rebuilding trust, restoring international connections, and redefining what a German airline could represent in a post-war world.

From that second beginning, Lufthansa steadily grew into one of the most recognizable and respected names in global aviation. Its cranes crossed oceans, its hubs became gateways, and its aircraft became familiar fixtures in skies from Europe to Asia, the Americas, and beyond.

At the heart of Lufthansa’s story are its people. Since its founding, employees have shared a distinctive ethos—marked by pioneering ambition, technical precision, and a passion for flight. Today, that spirit is embodied by 40,000 Lufthansa brand employees from 122 nations, and around 100,000 people from more than 160 countries across the Lufthansa Group.

Equally central are the passengers. Over a century of change—from propellers to wide-body jets, from paper tickets to digital boarding passes—customer trust and loyalty have been the constant fuel. The centennial is, in many ways, a collective milestone: a thank-you to the millions who chose Lufthansa as part of their own journeys.

A living anniversary

Lufthansa’s 100th year will not be confined to a single ceremony. Instead, 2026 is designed as a year of experiences—for customers, employees, and aviation enthusiasts alike.

Highlights include a permanent exhibition at Lufthansa Group Hangar One, special events across key markets, a dedicated history book, film and video productions, employee celebrations, customer gatherings, and anniversary-themed marketing and product campaigns.

From January onward, the centennial will be visible across the travel experience. The “100 Years of Lufthansa” emblem will appear on boarding passes, at airports, and onboard aircraft. Beyond aviation spaces, poster campaigns in major cities will tell Lufthansa’s story through iconic imagery—turning urban centers into open-air galleries of flight history.

Perhaps the most striking symbols of the anniversary will be seen in the sky. Lufthansa is unveiling a special anniversary fleet—six aircraft across its core sub-fleets, each wearing a bespoke 100-year livery.

The fleet includes an Airbus A380, Airbus A350-1000, Airbus A350-900, Airbus A320, and Boeing 747-8. Leading them is the Boeing 787-9 “Berlin”, delivered from Boeing’s Washington State factory shortly before Christmas and now based in Frankfurt. Registered as D-ABPU, the aircraft will soon enter scheduled service, carrying the centennial message across continents.

Adding depth to design, Lufthansa will also roll out two retro liveries, blending heritage with forward motion. Central to all designs is the iconic crane, created in 1918 by Otto Firle—a symbol that has outlived regimes, technologies, and generations, remaining one of aviation’s most enduring emblems.

The next takeoff

At 100, Lufthansa stands at a rare intersection: old enough to carry history, young enough to imagine what comes next. The centennial is not a full stop, but a runway—a moment to gather speed for the future of sustainable aviation, digital transformation, and global connectivity.

After a century aloft, Lufthansa’s message is clear. The journey is not just something the airline provides. It is something it shares—with its people, its passengers, and the world it continues to connect.

We are the Journey.

A trusted provider of aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, SIAEP is already operating out of Clark and is majority-owned by the Singapore Airlines Group. The move to NAIA underscores growing investor confidence in the airport’s ongoing upgrades and its potential to become a regional aviation hub.

“This is a big boost for NAIA and Philippine aviation. We welcome SIAEP and look forward to working closely with them to enhance support for airlines operating here,” said Ramon S. Ang, President and CEO of New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC).

SIAEP’s presence at NAIA is expected to improve aircraft turnaround times, provide faster technical support, and enhance service reliability for both local and international carriers. It also creates opportunities for job generation, skills development, and knowledge transfer in the country’s aviation sector.

Other major MRO players are reportedly exploring expansion at NAIA as well—an encouraging sign for the country’s aviation ecosystem. Increased competition is likely to lead to better service options and greater operational efficiency for airlines.

“This is part of our broader effort to raise NAIA’s standards—not just as a gateway for travelers, but as a vital hub for the aviation industry,” Ang added.

The Group’s Adjusted EBIT climbed nearly 27% to €871 million in Q2 2025, up from €686 million in the same period last year. Net profit skyrocketed to €1.01 billion—more than double the €469 million posted in Q2 2024—bolstered by extraordinary tax and currency effects, as well as strong results from key business units and a €91 million positive impact from its ITA Airways investment.

“Delays in aircraft deliveries, certifications, and engine overhauls continue. The disproportionate burden on European airlines due to unilateral EU regulations also continues to put us at a disadvantage in global competition,” said Carsten Spohr, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG.

“In this challenging environment, we were able to increase our operating result by almost a third in the second quarter and double the Lufthansa Group result,” he added in the company’s second quarter report for 2025.

Revenues edged up 3% to €10.3 billion, driven by a 4% expansion in the passenger flight program and resilience in intercontinental travel. The Group carried 61 million passengers in the first half of 2025, with a stable load factor of 82%, despite growing capacity.

Operational stability also helped the bottom line. “Thanks to the tremendous commitment of our employees on board and on the ground, we are now able to report positive operating results for the first six months of the year,” Spohr said, adding that customer satisfaction rose due to fewer delays and lower compensation payouts.

The Group’s balance sheet remained strong, with net debt trimmed to €5.5 billion (from €5.7 billion at end-2024) and liquidity slightly up at €11.1 billion. Adjusted Free Cashflow rose to €1.04 billion, from €878 million in the previous year.

Spohr reaffirmed confidence in the Group’s trajectory: “The Lufthansa Group remains on course. Although the second quarter was again marked by geopolitical crises and economic uncertainties, we are today confirming our positive outlook for the full year.”

In a news release, CPCS said this move aligns the company with a growing global movement among airline caterers to improve animal welfare standards in their supply chains.

Sherwin B. Olivar, General Manager at Cebu Pacific Catering Services, said that the company’s decision is part of its dedication to meeting global sustainability standards while ensuring the highest quality in airline catering.

“Our commitment to sourcing 100% cage-free eggs by 2030 reflects CPCS’s ongoing efforts to implement responsible sourcing practices that adhere to international standards,” Olivar said.

CPCS, a joint venture between MacroAsia Corporation, Cathay Pacific Catering Services of Hong Kong, and MGO Pacific Resources Corporation, prepares over 2,000 meals daily for international flights at Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

This commitment follows similar pledges from major airline caterers worldwide, including Cathay Pacific Catering Services in Hong Kong, signaling a unified shift towards more responsible sourcing practices within the industry.

Robyn del Rosario, Sustainability Program Manager at Lever Foundation, praised CPCS for its leadership in sustainability.

“CPCS’s full transition to cage-free eggs demonstrates its strong commitment to improving animal welfare in the airline catering sector,” said del Rosario. “Their decision will set a positive example and influence regional supply chains, showing how international partnerships can drive meaningful change in the aviation services industry.”

Cage-free egg production, where hens are allowed to roam freely in open indoor environments, not only improves animal welfare but also reduces food safety risks. Research by the European Food Safety Authority found that cage-free egg farms are up to 25 times less likely to be contaminated with key strains of salmonella compared to caged egg farms.

The production of caged eggs has already been banned in several countries, including across Europe, the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, and parts of India, Australia, and the United States.

With a growing number of consumers opting to forgo eggs altogether to help laying hens, this transition marks a significant step toward a more humane and sustainable food supply.

Lever Foundation, a global NGO, works with leading companies to promote more sustainable and humane sourcing of animal protein and plant-based foods. Through its work, Lever Foundation is helping companies like CPCS develop sourcing strategies that improve both animal welfare and food safety.

The system went live at Terminal 3 on March 1, 2025, with expansion to Terminals 1 and 2 set for March 14, 2025. To further enhance efficiency, real-time parking slot displays will be installed at Terminal 3 by April and at Terminals 1 and 2 by May this year. This will allow drivers to check available spaces before entering.

Currently, only cash payments are accepted, but starting March 14, 2025, the system will support multiple payment options, including GCash, PayMaya, debit, and credit cards for greater convenience.

With the new system, drivers enter through unmanned entrances, receive an automated ticket, and exit using a QR code-based system. This will significantly reduce waiting times and improve overall traffic flow.

By July 2025, autopay stations will be operational across all terminals, further speeding up transactions.

This new parking system is part of NNIC’s efforts to modernize NAIA and improve services for all airport users.

Originally designed for 35 million passengers annually, NAIA handled 50.1 million travelers in 2024 — a 10.43% increase from 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

“NAIA is operating well beyond its capacity, and while major infrastructure upgrades are in progress, expanding our shuttle fleet is an immediate step to improve accessibility and convenience for passengers,” said NNIC President Ramon S. Ang.

The new buses offer round-the-clock, free transfers for passengers with connecting flights, reducing wait times and easing congestion. They complement broader improvements, including expanded terminal curbsides and an upgraded traffic system for smoother operation.

Earlier this year, NNIC also deployed two new ambulances for quick medical assistance, three “follow-me” vehicles to improve aircraft guidance and reduce taxi times, and four inter-terminal coasters to facilitate seamless passenger transfers, particularly for those with connecting flights or mobility challenges.

Since taking over NAIA operations in September 2024, NNIC — a San Miguel Corporation-led consortium — has introduced key enhancements to modernize the airport and support the country’s tourism and economic growth.