Airlines in the Philippines have announced significant cuts to their flights to China, following escalating tensions in the South China Sea and a new ban on online casinos in the country. This latest development comes amid growing concerns over the safety and security of Filipino travelers in China, and the impact of the ongoing territorial disputes on the region’s aviation industry.
Philippine Airlines, the country’s flag carrier, announced that it would be reducing its daily flights to China by 50%, citing a drop in demand due to the recent developments in the South China Sea. The airline, which operates several routes to major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, stated that the decision was made in order to prioritize the safety and well-being of its passengers and crew.
Cebu Pacific, another major airline in the Philippines, also announced similar cuts to its flights to China, reducing its services by 30%. The airline, known for its budget-friendly fares and extensive route network, stated that the decision was necessary in order to mitigate the impact of the ongoing tensions on its operations.
The decision to cut flights to China comes as the Philippines continues to assert its sovereignty in the South China Sea, where it has long-standing territorial disputes with China. The recent deployment of Chinese vessels near a disputed reef in the sea has raised concerns over the safety of Filipino travelers in the region, prompting airlines to take precautionary measures to ensure the security of their passengers.
In addition to the cuts in flights to China, Philippine authorities have also announced a ban on online casinos in the country, a move that is expected to have significant implications for the country’s gaming industry. The ban, which was implemented in order to combat money laundering and other illegal activities, has already resulted in the closure of several online gambling operations in the country.
The combination of these measures is expected to have a significant impact on the Philippines’ aviation and gaming industries, which have long been major contributors to the country’s economy. As tensions in the South China Sea continue to escalate, it remains to be seen how the country’s airlines and gaming operators will navigate the challenges posed by the ongoing disputes in the region.