New air routes eyed to boost Northern Samar tourism

NEW YORK - Northern Samar 2nd District Representative Edwin C. Ongchuan recently met with executives of Cebu Pacific to discuss possible initiatives aimed at strengthening transportation connectivity and promoting economic development in the province.

The meeting brought together Ongchuan and key airline officials, including Michael Ivan Shau, President and Chief Operating Officer of Cebgo, Ces Natividad, Vice President for Corporate Affairs, and other executives from the airline group.

The discussion served as a follow-up engagement focused on exploring ways to improve access to Northern Samar and support its development goals.

Among the key topics raised was the possibility of launching commercial flights connecting Northern Samar particularly through Catarman National Airport to major destinations such as Manila.

Ongchuan emphasized that improved air connectivity could help unlock Northern Samar’s potential in tourism, trade, and investment. With its natural attractions, coastal destinations, and growing local industries, the province continues to position itself as an emerging destination in Eastern Visayas.

He noted that reliable and accessible air transportation would make travel more convenient for visitors, investors, and residents while helping stimulate local economic activity by encouraging tourism, facilitating business travel, and creating opportunities for local enterprises.

Residents have also expressed optimism about the possibility of expanded airline services in the province, noting that the entry of another airline could provide more travel options and potentially lower airfare costs.

“It’s good very good,” said resident Tintin Bulagnir-Bactol in an interview with Filipino Reporters. “If another airline begins operating flights between Catarman and Manila, airfare prices may go down because of competition with the airline that currently operates on the route.”

While discussions remain exploratory, the meeting reflects ongoing efforts by Ongchuan to engage private sector partners and aviation stakeholders to improve connectivity for Northern Samar. If realized, the initiative could mark an important step toward boosting tourism, enhancing mobility, and supporting economic growth across the province.