Three major Philippine airlines have pledged to lower domestic airfares by removing their top two most expensive fare classes, according to Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco. The move, announced during the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026 in Cebu, aims to make travel more affordable and boost local tourism.

The announcement was made on January 28, 2026, at the opening ceremonies of the ASEAN Tourism Forum held at the historic Liberty Shrine in Lapu-Lapu City. Secretary Frasco explained that the airlines agreed to drop their highest fare buckets, a step expected to ease the burden on travelers who have long complained about steep domestic ticket prices. “There is already a commitment from three airline companies to drop their top two most expensive price buckets,” Frasco said.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has been working closely with airline companies after mounting public concerns that flights to popular local destinations such as Siargao, Palawan, and Boracay often cost more than international trips. Malacañang previously confirmed that carriers would reduce fares on key tourism routes, citing the government’s goal of making domestic travel more accessible to Filipinos.

The fare reduction is expected to have a significant impact on the tourism sector, which continues to recover from pandemic-related disruptions. Lower ticket prices could encourage more Filipinos to explore local destinations, while also attracting foreign tourists who often compare domestic travel costs with regional competitors.

Industry observers note that while the removal of the top fare classes is a welcome development, the actual effect on average ticket prices will depend on how airlines adjust their remaining fare structures. The DOT has assured the public that it will monitor compliance and work with carriers to ensure that the promised reductions translate into real savings for passengers.

The initiative comes at a crucial time as the Philippines positions itself as a competitive tourism hub in Southeast Asia. With Cebu hosting ASEAN delegates and showcasing cultural performances and culinary heritage, the government hopes that more affordable airfares will complement its efforts to highlight the country’s destinations.

This commitment by airlines marks a step forward in addressing long-standing complaints about expensive domestic flights. For travelers, it signals a potential shift toward more budget-friendly options, making it easier to experience the Philippines’ diverse attractions without breaking the bank.

Relief for Travelers or Marketing Reset

Dropping the most expensive fare classes sounds like long-overdue relief for travelers priced out of local destinations. For years, Filipinos watched flights to Palawan or Siargao cost more than trips abroad. Any move that lowers barriers deserves attention.

But airfare pain is not only about labels. If base fares fall while add-ons quietly rise, the total bill barely changes. Airlines can remove premium buckets and still keep prices high through fees, timing, and limited seats at lower rates.

This pledge matters only if passengers feel it at checkout, not in press releases. Are domestic flights finally becoming affordable, or is this just a smarter way to sell the same prices under friendlier names?