SEAir flies to Baler
For reservations call 853-7679 or 853-3115.
One-way fare Php2,500.
Regular flights between Manila and Baler, Aurora started on February 17, this was a landmark event for a province that has been carrying out frenzied efforts to break out from remoteness and isolation.
The provincial government, major bus operator Genesis Transport Services Inc, and Southeast Asian Airlines (SEAIR) teamed up to put the air service in place. This air service is expected to dramatically boost the province's economy, said Governor Bella Angara-Castillo.
Under an agreement with SEAIR, an airline with a solid record of domestic service, Genesis Transport Sea Air will charter and make available 19-seat planes on an ongoing basis.
The service will initially offer two flights per week, with departures at 8:00 am every Monday and Friday from the Manila Domestic terminal. The flights from Baler Airport back to Manila will be at 9:30 am on Mondays and Fridays. One way fare has been set at P2,500, inclusive of VAT, passenger insurance and other charges.
It will be a short 45-minute trip according to SEAIR.
Genesis Transport handles all ground components and related services. Genesis Transport is the only regular air-con bus operator between Manila and Baler.
Transportation and Communications Secretary Leandro Mendoza and other prominent names in government and the private sector were invited to grace the launch of the first flight from Manila Domestic Terminal to Baler on February 17. Gov. Castillo led the local dignitaries and business groups that welcomed the passengers of the inaugural run at Baler Airport.
Senator Edgardo Angara, a Baler native and his son, Rep. Juan Edgardo Angara, also witnessed the landmark transport event. The two have long been supporting efforts to put in place commercial plane flights to Aurora.
"The February event was literally a new dawn for us. Regular plane flights will bolster tourism, travel and trade and the benefits that will accrue to the province and its people will be immense," said Angara-Castillo.
The province, she noted, is breaking out from remoteness and underdevelopment with giant strides in the economic front and the plane service fits into the province's overall development plans.
Genesis Transport said that this air service is a major complement to its air-con bus service. Genesis said air service and land transport complement each other, more so in a remote area such as Aurora.
"Those who want to fly in and out of Baler have the option of air travel; those who want a leisurely but comfortable and reliable travel to Aurora can take Genesis buses," said Sundance Apolinario, Genesis manager for air travel.
Aurora is a province high up in the Sierra Madre, known for its remoteness and spectacular beauty.
It is one of the few provinces in the country with a substantial stand of old-growth forest, wondrous natural diversity and beautiful beaches. It is one of the few provinces with surfing sites and world-class diving spots.
The lady governor said that the local and foreign tourists now have an additional reason to visit Aurora, whose natural beauty is unrivalled in the Luzon area.
"It is Luzon's last environmental frontier, it is a province of history and beauty," said Governor Castillo.
| REGULAR FLIGHTS (Friday and Monday) |
Depart MNL | 8:00 AM |
Depart Baler | 9:30 AM |
For reservations from Manila call Henry Llanes or Blessie Porquerino at 853-7679 or 853-3115. In Baler call Cora Bautista at 042-209-4391 or 0 (918) 339-4698.
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