Senator Calls for Probe on Domestic Airline Tickets
Senator Mark Villar has taken a firm stand by filing a resolution urging a thorough investigation into the soaring domestic airline tickets. He described the current prices as “predatory,” highlighting how these inflated costs are hurting everyday Filipinos. The senator stressed that the investigation into domestic airline tickets is urgent due to the growing public frustration over skyrocketing fares.
For example, a one-way ticket from Manila to Siargao that cost only P3,000 in 2017 now reaches as high as P18,000 in 2025. Another alarming case is a flight for two from Tacloban to Manila that was charged at a staggering P77,720. “These prices are not only unreasonable but have become barriers for ordinary Filipinos, especially those traveling for work or to visit family,” Villar said. He emphasized the significance of domestic flights in supporting commerce, tourism, and mobility throughout the islands.
Comparing Domestic and International Flight Prices
Villar pointed out a troubling contrast between domestic and international airfare. While local fares have surged, round-trip tickets to nearby countries like Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, and Japan range from P10,000 to P30,000—often less costly than some one-way local flights. This disparity raises questions about the fairness and regulation of domestic airline pricing.
As the author of the Magna Carta of Commuters, Villar highlighted that his resolution aligns with his broader mission to protect passengers’ rights and promote affordable, inclusive transportation. He warned that unchecked airfare increases not only hinder tourism but also strain the social fabric by separating families due to high travel costs.
“Ito po rin ang tulay para makapiling ng ating mga kababayan ang kanilang mga pamilya,” Villar said, underscoring the emotional and practical hardships caused by unaffordable fares.
Calls for Government and Industry Cooperation
The resolution asks the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) to lead the inquiry. Senator Villar urged the agency to welcome reform proposals and examine whether current regulations and enforcement are adequate. “We must examine whether current regulations are sufficient and whether enforcement is being carried out effectively,” he stated.
The investigation aims to foster cooperation among government bodies, airlines, and the public to set fair pricing standards. The goal is to strengthen regulatory oversight and potentially spark long-term reforms in domestic aviation policies, ensuring that fares are reasonable and accessible to all Filipinos.
For more news and updates on domestic airline tickets, visit Filipinokami.com.
