By el Amigo
MANILA — Philippine Airlines (PAL) has been named Asia’s Leading Cultural Airline for 2026 by the World Travel Awards, recognizing its efforts to showcase Filipino hospitality and traditions through its passenger service.
The award was presented during the World Travel Awards’ regional gala ceremony on September 27, 2026, at CROSSROADS Maldives in the Maldives. PAL emerged ahead of 12 other nominated airlines in the category.
Winners are selected through online voting by travel industry executives and consumers, with ballots from verified industry professionals carrying double weight. The voting process is also subject to an internal audit.
PAL Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Atty. Carlos Luis Fernandez said the recognition reflects the dedication of airline employees in bringing the Filipino spirit to passengers across its international network.
He described the award as a source of pride for the airline and the people who make its service distinct.
For more than eight decades, PAL has promoted Filipino warmth and personal care as key elements of its passenger experience. The airline, founded in 1941, is also pursuing fleet modernization, cabin upgrades and stronger connectivity.
PAL operates nonstop flights from Manila and Cebu to 29 domestic destinations and 40 destinations across Asia, North America, Australia and the Middle East.
The distinction reinforces the carrier’s effort to combine service improvements with the cultural identity it represents as the country’s flag carrier.
ia/xf
