THE Philippines and Indonesia have committed to promote the reestablishment of flights between Davao to Manado to mutually boost trade, tourism and investments between the two Asean nations.
Based on the written statement, the two countries will push for the resumption of the flights between the two cities, as diplomatic relations between the two nations will reach its 70th anniversary in 2019.
The statement was signed by Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia Leehiong T. Wee, Indonesian Ambassador to the Philippines Sinyo Harry Sarundajang and Philippine Transportation Undersecretary for Aviation Manuel L. Tamayo on September 1.
Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade said the statement is a testament to the centuries-old ties between the Philippines and Indonesia. “This shows the Philippine and Indonesian governments are both working to improve bilateral relations, as well as make the region more competitive in the face of global challenges,” he said.
The reestablishment of the flights between Davao and Manado is “an enhancement” of the air-transport agreement signed by the two nations in 1972.
Tamayo noted the resumption of flights will boost the trade and tourism industries of both nations.
“Davao is an economic powerhouse in the country and Manado is both a business center and a gateway to some of the many exciting activities in Indonesia. Together, we will make wonders,” he said.
Tamayo added: “Apart from trade and tourism, there are also students from Manado studying in Davao and other cities who now do not have to travel to Jakarta to board a plane to Manila. They only have to board another connecting flight to Davao.”
He noted that a Philippine carrier will be sending a team to Manado to conduct a feasibility study on the said route, while a low-cost carrier from Indonesia has already expressed its interest in launching Manado-Davao flights.