SHARE THIS ARTICLE
RECENT ARTICLES
Unleash the potential of your business with Ex-works
Ex-works has assisted companies globally in imports and exports. Allow us to handle all your shipments so you do not face any challenges during the customs clearance process in the Philippines. We also offer customs clearance services at a small cost if you need to deliver urgently and save time. Open an account todayย with Ex-works, and let usย assist your business in overcoming the obstacles of international customs.
SHIP IN MORE THAN 180 COUNTRIES
GROW YOUR BUSINESS FROM ANYWHERE.
SUBSCRIBE TO EX-WORKS24/7 NEWS LETTER
Philippine Airline franchise renewal moved forward after the House approved a measure extending the flag carrier’s authority for 50 years.
The House of Representatives approved House Bill No. 10545 on third and final reading during its September 2 voting session.
The measure received 250 affirmative votes, while three lawmakers voted against it, and one member recorded an abstention during voting.
Moreover, the proposed legislation seeks another 50-year franchise for Philippine Airlines, Inc., allowing its air transport operations to continue nationwide.
The existing franchise was granted under Presidential Decree No. 1590, which established important operating rights for the country’s flag carrier.
Under HB No. 10545, the Philippine Airlines franchise would be renewed for another 50 years after completing required legislative procedures.
The proposal covers transport services involving passengers, mail, and property between destinations throughout the Philippines and authorized international points abroad.
Furthermore, scheduled, nonscheduled, and charter air transport services may be maintained domestically and internationally, subject to applicable air traffic requirements.
Operations are also expected to consider weather conditions, force majeure events, aviation regulations, safety requirements, and other applicable government standards.
Therefore, the proposed franchise provides a legal framework for PAL’s continued domestic and international passenger and cargo transport services.
The measure also authorizes PAL to use government-owned airport and landing facilities, subject to applicable requirements and national security considerations.
Meanwhile, the government may also use certain PAL facilities under reciprocal arrangements provided under the proposed franchise renewal legislation when necessary.
These provisions support continued coordination between the airline and government while recognizing applicable aviation, security, and public service responsibilities nationwide.
Additionally, airline operations remain subject to existing regulations and requirements imposed by appropriate government agencies exercising authority over Philippine civil aviation.
The franchise renewal does not remove regulatory oversight because airline activities would remain governed by applicable Philippine laws and operating standards.
HB No. 10545 was introduced by several lawmakers representing congressional districts and a party-list group during the current legislative process.
They include Representatives Jeffrey Ferrer, Francisco Paolo Ortega, Rufus Rodriguez, Maximo Rodriguez, and Roy Gonzales, according to provided legislative information.
The proposal was considered by the House before receiving approval on third and final reading through the recorded September 2 vote.
Consequently, House approval completed an important legislative stage, although additional action remains necessary before the proposed franchise becomes effective law.
The measure must continue through the legislative process, including consideration by the Senate and other steps required under Philippine law.
Following House approval, HB No. 10545 was transmitted to the Senate on September 3 for further legislative consideration and possible action.
The Senate may deliberate on the proposal, consider its provisions, and conduct voting under its established legislative procedures and constitutional responsibilities.
If Congress approves the required final version, the measure must proceed through remaining constitutional steps before it can become effective law.
Therefore, House approval alone does not mean that the Philippine Airlines franchise has already been renewed for another 50 years.
Final enactment will depend on completion of the legislative process and presidential action required under the Constitution and applicable Philippine laws.
Philippine Airlines was founded in 1941 and has developed extensive domestic and international passenger services during its decades of commercial operations.
Today, PAL operates flights from major hubs, including Manila and Cebu, connecting travelers with numerous destinations locally and across international markets.
Its network serves destinations across Asia, North America, Australia, and the Middle East, supporting passenger travel and international connectivity for Filipinos.
Moreover, the proposed franchise renewal could provide long-term authority for continued airline operations, subject to regulatory obligations and government oversight requirements.
As Senate consideration begins, further developments will determine whether the proposed 50-year franchise renewal ultimately completes the required legislative process.