Philippine Airlines Launches New Cebu-Catarman Flights and Expands Siargao Service

Travellers now have more reasons to explore the country as Philippine Airlines (PAL) enhances its domestic connectivity with new and expanded routes from Cebu. Beginning 1 Mar 2025, PAL will launch flights between Cebu and Catarman, alongside additional services to the popular island destination of Siargao.

PAL's Cebu-Catarman Route

PAL's thrice-weekly Cebu-Catarman-Cebu flights will operate every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday:

• Flight PR 2653 (Cebu to Catarman) departs Mactan-Cebu at 9:50 a.m. and arrives in Catarman at 10:55 a.m.

• Flight PR 2654 (Catarman to Cebu) departs Catarman at 11:25 a.m. and lands in Cebu at 12:30 p.m.

Cielo Villaluna, PAL’s spokesperson, expressed excitement about the new route, highlighting the convenient mid-morning schedule that caters to both business and leisure travelers.

Expanded Cebu-Siargao Services

In response to growing demand, PAL is increasing its Cebu-Siargao flights to 18 weekly. Two additional flights will now operate every Wednesday and Sunday:

• Flight PR 2355 (Cebu to Siargao) departs at 9:50 a.m.

• Flight PR 2356 (Siargao to Cebu) departs at 11:15 a.m.

Discover Catarman: A Hidden Gem in Northern Samar

With PAL’s new flights, Catarman is now more accessible than ever. Located in Northern Samar, Catarman is a gateway to serene beaches, historical landmarks, and lush natural attractions.

Must-Visit Spots in Catarman:

1. Pink Beach in San Vicente: Famous for its powdery pink sand, this beach is perfect for a peaceful getaway.

2. Capul Island Lighthouse: A historical gem that offers panoramic views of the ocean and a glimpse into the region’s Spanish colonial past.

3. Biri Rock Formations: Located a few hours from Catarman, these stunning geological formations are a must-see for nature enthusiasts.

4. Cangalan Beach: A secluded beach known for its calm waters, ideal for swimming and relaxation.

5. Catarman Church Ruins (Nuestra Señora de la Annunciata Church): An iconic historical site reflecting the town's rich cultural heritage.

Activities to Try:

• Island hopping to explore the nearby islets.

• Sampling Northern Samar’s local delicacies like tinapa (smoked fish) and suman (sticky rice delicacy).

• Trekking and photography at the Biri Rock Formations.

Also read: Siargao Ranked Among Most Affordable Tourist Destinations in Asia

Whether you’re heading to Catarman for its hidden gems or to Siargao for world-class surfing, PAL’s new routes make your dream getaway more convenient than ever.

Featured image credit: simongurney via Canva Pro