Numerous flights were canceled across the Philippines on Saturday, Nov. 16, as Typhoon Pepito intensified and continued its approach. Airlines, including Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines (PAL), announced cancellations to ensure passenger safety amid the typhoon’s expected onslaught.
Cebu Pacific Grounds Flights to Multiple Locations
Cebu Pacific canceled a significant number of domestic flights, particularly to areas expected to experience severe weather conditions. The affected routes include:
- Manila-Naga-Manila (DG 6113/6114, DG 6117/6118)
- Manila-Masbate-Manila (DG 6177/6178)
- Manila-Legazpi-Manila (DG 6195/6196, 5J 323/324)
- Cebu-Legazpi-Cebu (DG 6208/6209, DG 6210/6211)
- Cebu-Calbayog-Cebu (DG 6546/6547)
- Cebu-Tacloban-Cebu (DG 6577/6578, DG 6579/6580)
- Davao-Tacloban-Davao (5J 4768/4769)
- Iloilo-Tacloban-Iloilo (5J 4898/4899)
- Manila-Tacloban-Manila (5J 651/652, 5J 653/654, 5J 657/658, 5J 659/660)
Philippine Airlines and PAL Express Follow Suit
Philippine Airlines (PAL) and its budget carrier, PAL Express, also announced a series of cancellations, primarily targeting routes between Manila, Cebu, and Tacloban, as well as Cebu-Legazpi. The following flights were canceled:
- Manila-Tacloban-Manila (PR 2981/2982, PR 2985/2986, PR 2987/2988, PR 2671/2672)
- Cebu-Tacloban-Cebu (PR 2238/2239, PR 2234/2235)
- Manila-Legazpi-Manila (PR 2921/2922, PR 2919/2920)
- Cebu-Legazpi-Cebu (PR 2927/2928, PR 2923/2924)
A Preemptive Response to Weather Threats
Typhoon Pepito, which intensified early Friday, prompted airlines to prioritize passenger safety. The typhoon is expected to unleash strong winds and heavy rainfall, posing risks to affected areas still recovering from prior weather disturbances.
Passengers affected by these cancellations are advised to contact their respective airlines for rebooking or refund options. Airlines have urged travelers to remain updated on announcements regarding rescheduled flights or further cancellations.
Looking Ahead
As Typhoon Pepito continues to approach, local authorities emphasize the importance of preparedness, particularly in areas forecasted to experience heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.