PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

03 December 2025, BRISBANE - Philippine Ambassador to Australia Antonio Morales, joined by Philippine Honorary Consul Sheryll Gabutero, attended the inaugural launch of Jetstar’s direct Brisbane-Cebu flight. They joined Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully, Head of Network Ted Knight, and Brisbane Airport Executive General Manager Ryan Both to celebrate the new seasonal service, which will operate until 16 May 2026.

* Operates 31 January - 28 March 2026

“We are thrilled to welcome Jetstar’s new flight route from Brisbane to Cebu, making it easier than ever to discover the beauty of our islands and experience the warmth of Filipino hospitality,” Ambassador Morales said.

“This new gateway strengthens the strategic partnership of the Philippines and Australia, and opens exciting opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural connections. We are excited to welcome more Australian visitors to our shores,” he added.

Ambassador Morales shared that the new service meets the growing needs of the Filipino community in Queensland, now numbering more than 51,000, and supports the increasing number of Filipino international students studying in Brisbane.

Onboard the six-hour inaugural flight was Jetstar Head of Network Ted Knight. Passengers arriving at Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA) were welcomed by Australian Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Marc Innes-Brown, Tourism Assistant Secretary Judilyn Quiachon, Aboitiz Cebu Airport Corporation Chief Airline Marketing Officer Mark Souter, MCIA General Manager and CEO Julius Neri Jr., and Lapu-Lapu City Tourism Officer Gary Lao.

According to the Philippine Department of Tourism, Australia remains the country’s fifth-largest inbound market, with 66% of Australian visitors travelling for leisure and 53% returning to revisit key destinations.

With weekly flights, Aussies now have direct access to Cebu’s world-class beaches, marine sanctuaries, and vibrant culinary scene. Ambassador Morales encouraged Australian companies to engage in Cebu’s thriving business environment, including IT-BPM, manufacturing and design sectors and its network of universities. The new route is also a gateway to explore Southern Philippine destinations such as Siargao, renowned for surfing.

In September 2025, the Philippines and Australia expanded their air services agreement, doubling weekly passenger flights to 70 by Q4 2026, increasing cargo rights, and boosting codeshare opportunities to strengthen travel and trade links.- END