If you’re planning a trip, whether it’s local or international, then you better book your plane tickets soon because airlines in the Philippines may raise their fares this November.
The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) has announced in an advisory that the passenger and cargo fuel surcharges for the entirety of next month will be heightened up a notch to Level 7.
As a result of this change, the cost for a domestic flight may increase between Php 219 to Php 739 depending on distance, while international flights will become Php 772.71 to Php 5,373.69 more expensive, GMA News reported.
Carriers that want to impose or collect the increased rates must submit applications to the office of CAB Executive Director Carmelo Arcilla.
As it seems likely that airlines will take advantage of the higher rates, it’s best for travelers to book their plane tickets now while the changes have yet to take effect.
National carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) has already said via spokesperson Cielo Villaluna that it “will faithfully comply with the fuel surcharge matrix issued by the CAB which applies to tickets purchased next month.” Meanwhile, both  Cebu Pacific and AirAsia have advised travelers to get their tickets sooner rather than later.
“We encourage our customers to book their flights ahead to avail of more affordable fares,” Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer Xander Lao was quoted as saying by ABS-CBN News.
“AirAsia guests can also seek further relief from the anticipated adjustments in ticket prices brought about by the volatility of global fuel prices by advance booking, especially for future travels as travel and vacation time peak in the remaining months of Q4 for many Filipinos, ” Air Asia Public Affairs Head Steve Dailisan said.
