(THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF NORTHERN SAMAR)
TACLOBAN CITY – The launch of Philippine Airlines’ (PAL) Cebu-Catarman route is expected to bring new economic and tourism opportunities to Northern Samar, according to local officials.
“With increased accessibility, we can attract more tourists, create more jobs, and stimulate economic development,” said Catarman Mayor Francisco Aurelio Rosales III during the inaugural flight on Tuesday, March 4.
PAL will operate the Cebu-Catarman route three times a week using an 86-seater De Havilland Dash 8 Series 400 Next Generation aircraft.
Cebu to Catarman: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
Departs Mactan-Cebu International Airport at 9:50 a.m.
Arrives in Catarman Airport at 10:55 a.m.
Catarman to Cebu:
Departs Catarman Airport at 11:25 a.m.
Arrives in Cebu at 12:30 p.m.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Eastern Visayas Assistant Regional Director Boris Pascubillo highlighted the significance of the new route in unlocking tourism, trade, and cultural exchange in Northern Samar.
“This milestone not only marks a new flight path but also a vital connection linking Northern Samar’s diverse towns and vibrant communities to greater opportunities,” he said.
Pascubillo also emphasized the province’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and welcoming people, which are now more accessible to travelers.
“With this enhanced connectivity, we can increase tourism arrivals and stimulate economic growth, bringing us a step closer to making Eastern Visayas a top destination for both domestic and international travelers,” he added.
Northern Samar Vice Governor Clarence Dato expressed gratitude to PAL and its partners for making travel to the province more convenient.
“This poses a challenge for the province to enhance infrastructure and position itself on the tourism and economic map, ensuring we meet the demands of this growing sector,” Dato said.
According to PAL’s Regional Head of Sales, Leonard Bryan Sansolis, the Cebu-Catarman route opens up more than just local travel opportunities.
“This is not just about connecting Catarman to Cebu but expanding possibilities for the people of Northern Samar. From Cebu, travelers can seamlessly connect to popular destinations such as Boracay, Clark, Coron, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Siargao, and Manila,” he said.
Apart from the new Cebu-Catarman route, PAL also operates flights between Manila and Catarman every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
