Philippine Airlines (PAL), through its subsidiary PAL Express, marked a significant expansion of its domestic network with the launch of daily flights between Manila and Cauayan City, Isabela on January 15, 2025, establishing a crucial air link to one of Northern Luzon’s emerging economic centers.
The inaugural flight, PR 2018, departed Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 at 1:25 PM, utilizing an 86-seat De Havilland Dash 8-400 Next Generation aircraft. The new route transforms what was previously a grueling 10-hour land journey into a comfortable 65-minute flight.
“We are pleased to introduce our new Manila-Cauayan-Manila route to serve the residents of Isabela province,” said PAL Express President Rabbi Vincent Ang during the launch ceremony.
“At Philippine Airlines, we are happy to be part of a story of economic progress in Northern Luzon and look forward to working with our partners and stakeholders in the local government and community, in the continuing task of building up tourism, business growth and greater connectivity for the benefit of all Filipinos,” he added.
The launch ceremony at NAIA Terminal 2 included representatives from PAL, Cauayan local government, Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), and New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC).
Cauayan City Mayor Caesar “Jaycee” Dy, Jr. stressed the route’s potential impact on regional development. “Cauayan City is a jump point of tourism in the Northern East of the Philippines. By opening this new route, we are also expecting the economic growth that it will bring to our city and our province,” Dy said.
The daily flight schedule operates as 2P-2018 from Manila, departing at 1:25 PM and arriving in Cauayan at 2:30 PM. The return service, 2P-2019, leaves Cauayan at 3:25 PM, reaching Manila at 4:40 PM.
The service particularly benefits Isabela province, known for its cultural festivals including the annual Bambanti and Gawagaway-yan celebrations. The improved accessibility is expected to step up both tourism and business activities in the region.
Passengers can secure reservations through Philippine Airlines’ website, mobile app, hotline service at (+632) 8855-8888, or authorized travel agents and ticketing offices.
On March 1, the airline is also set to launch new flights from Cebu to Catarman, flying three times weekly.
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