Market Intelligence: South East Asia

Philippines — Airworks Aviation Company successfully hosted the Cebu Aviation Summit 2025 drawing an impressive turnout from airline leaders, government leaders and students. The event, held in Cebu—one of Southeast Asia’s emerging aviation training hubs—highlighted the essential role of collaboration between education and industry in shaping the next generation of aviation professionals.

• Key highlights and speakers included:

  • Governor Pamela Baricuatro, formerly a senior purser at Cathay Pacific, shared her journey from aviation service to public leadership.

  • Capt. Noel Pablo of Cebu Pacific Air presented details on the airline’s Cadet Pilot Program and Skycamp Program, opening career pathways for aspiring pilots.

  • Julius Neri Jr., GM of Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA), outlined upcoming infrastructure investments designed to sustain Cebu’s leadership in aviation and training.

  • Rico Ugdoracion, GM of Aviation Partnership Philippines, shared an inspiring rise from hangar mechanic to MRO executive.

  • Major Raymond Ralph Gamboa of the Philippine Air Force recounted his journey to becoming squadron commander after training at the U.S. Air Force Academy.

• The summit was supported by Textron Aviation and JS Union Oils & Trading, emphasizing corporate backing for aviation training development in the region.

• The event affirmed Cebu’s role as a strategic hub for flight training, maintenance, and aviation education, reflecting a unified commitment to developing the Philippines’ aviation workforce.

Source: Vincent Charles Ong (Airworks Aviation)